Every movement needs its heroes, and in the fight for our planet, some voices stand out. From protesting in the streets to changing policies at the highest levels, these environmental activists are a force of nature—and they inspire me to be one, too! They are testaments to the fact that with determination, activism can make a lasting, impactful change.
These activists are my role models, showing me what I can become in the future. Their actions inspire some of my activities, too. Here are 5 environmental activists who inspire me!
5 Inspirational Eco-Warriors (Environmental Activists)
- Laurence Tubiana
Laurence Tubiana is a force of nature! As the CEO of the European Climate Foundation, Chair of the Board of Governors at the French Development Agency, France’s Climate Change Ambassador and Special Representative for COP21, and key architect of the Paris Agreement, she’s been at the heart of shaping global climate policy. But, what truly inspires me is her passion for empowering the next generation.
At Sciences Po Paris, she teaches young students to challenge the status quo and think outside the box. In her numerous teaching positions, she has guided the youth on their path to activism and sustainability. Empowering the future generation to think outside the box and redefine what’s normal.
At COP21, she led many of the negotiations surrounding the Paris Agreement. She organized innumerous details about the event herself, and helped steer the conversations towards finding common ground on global surface temperature.
When I contacted Laurence to endorse my environmental children’s book, I was blown away by her excitement and encouragement! Laurence has inspired me to always shoot for the stars and never let anything get you down. I admire how she ushers in a new generation of activists and is always speaking out about various climate issues.
- Wangarī Maathai
Wangarī Maathai was a tree-planting warrior! As founder of the Green Belt Movement, she led an environmental revolution by planting millions of trees to combat deforestation. Wangarī was all about environmental conservation, alleviating poverty, ending conflict, and women’s rights.
By planting millions of trees and raising awareness, Wangarī made a big impact on the environment. Even when her efforts were met with resistance, Wangarī didn’t back down—she broke traditional barriers and forged ahead. The Green Belt Movement has also inspired similar initiatives in other African countries.
Wangarī has also received numerous accolades such as in 2004, when she became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Her determination to fight against traditional roles is what inspires me to be an activist.
Reading about her efforts to empower women while restoring the environment inspired me to take action with the girls in my community through the Girl Scouts. When I organized our community garden visit, I thought of her. Wangarī’s relentless fight for women’s empowerment and environmental justice inspires me to push forward, even when the path isn’t easy.
- Greta Thunberg
Greta Thunberg–the voice of our generation–is a young Swedish environmental activist, known for heading the movement Fridays for Future. At 15, Greta began missing school on Fridays in a call for stronger action on climate change. As she gained popularity, kids joined the movement, and after addressing the 2018 United Nations Climate Change Conference, weekly Friday climate protests took place around the world—joining her call for change.
Gaining international attention, Greta’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Her work has encouraged the youth to stand up for what they believe in and speak out.
When I first heard about Greta I was immediately in awe. Her story taught me that age is just a number; even as a teenager, your voice can make waves. I became motivated to be an activist and raise awareness about environmental issues in my community.
Her courage motivates me to use my voice louder and clearer in my own activism. I love her quote: “I’ve learned you are never too small to make a difference.” It’s a mantra I live by when I lead my school’s Climate Crew to expand our initiatives and get even more students involved.
- Marina Silva
Marina Silva is a Brazilian politician, environmentalist, and Brazil’s fierce protector of the rainforest. Growing up in the Amazon, Marina witnessed firsthand the dangers of deforestation, which fueled her determination to preserve this precious ecosystem. Today, as Brazil’s Minister of the Environment, she’s established massive reserves in the rainforest and implemented policies that reduce deforestation, protect biodiversity, and advocate for the rights of indigenous peoples–ensuring their lands are preserved and promoting their involvement in environmental decision. Despite facing numerous challenges, Marina has impactful change by her role in preserving the Amazon rainforest, advocating for the rights of indigenous people, and raising global awareness about sustainability.
What amazes me most is her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global leader. Marina’s story shows that no matter where you start, you can have a huge impact. Her work encourages me to keep pushing for change, whether I’m planting trees or organizing recycling campaigns at school.
- Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall is the definition of persistence and passion. As an English zoologist, she is famous for her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees. Jane didn’t just observe animals—she connected with them, completly changing the game on how we understand animal behavior.
As an environmental and humanitarian activist, Jane has spent decades advocating for the protection of habitats and the importance of preserving our planet. Her lifelong dedication inspires me because she shows that you don’t need to follow a conventional path to make a difference. She followed her passion for animals, and it led her to change the world. Jane’s tenacity drives me to follow my own passion for environmental activism, no matter how unconventional it may seem.
Learning from the Greats
These five activists—Laurence Tubiana, Wangarī Maathai, Greta Thunberg, Marina Silva, and Jane Goodall—have shown me what it means to stand up for the environment. They are reminders that activism is more than just big speeches or global summits; it’s about the small, everyday actions we take to protect our planet and uplift those around us.
Whether it’s planting a tree, speaking out for marginalized communities, or leading a school initiative, these activists inspire me to keep pushing for change. They prove that you don’t have to be a politician or a scientist to make a difference—you just have to be passionate and persistent.
So whether you’re organizing a neighborhood cleanup or switching plastic bags for tote bags, it all adds up. After all, that’s the kind of world I want to help create: one where every voice matters and each action counts.
