Why did groups such as Pollution Probe and Greenpeace form? What are their main objectives?

Pollution Probe formed to improve Canadian's health (from recycling) through research, education, promotion and advocacy of actions. Greenpeace formed to "ensure the ability of the Earth to nurture life in all its diversity", and focuses on issues such as climate change, deforestation, overfishing, commercial whaling, genetic engineering, and anti-nuclear issues.