Climate change isn’t a distant threat lurking on the horizon—it’s knocking on our doors, right here, right now. And guess what? It’s not just scientists and politicians in the ring anymore. The fight against this global crisis has found some unexpected heroes: influencers. These aren’t your average Instagram celebs obsessed with the perfect selfie; these are real game-changers using their voices to stir the world into action.
Imagine the power of a single post or video, not just to inform, but to ignite a movement. That’s what these climate action influencers are doing. They’re transforming the complex, often overwhelming narrative of climate change into something personal, relatable, and, most importantly, actionable. They’re not just talking about melting ice caps; they’re showing us how our daily choices ripple across the globe. From swapping a plastic straw for a metal one to advocating for major policy reforms, they’re leading a revolution, one post at a time.
Their tool? The vast, interconnected world of social media. Their audience? Millions of people, just like you and me, ready to be inspired. These influencers are more than just voices; they’re the bridge connecting knowledge to action, despair to hope. They challenge the status quo, debunk myths, and open our eyes to the beauty and fragility of our planet.
Let’s dive into this journey through the stories and impacts of the top 20 climate action influencers, remember: every word they say, every action they take, is a call for us to join the cause.
🌍 They’re not just changing the conversation; they’re changing the world. And so can we.
Kathryn Kellogg, a prominent voice in the sustainability realm, hails from California and advocates vigorously for a plastic-free lifestyle. She currently holds the position of Chief Sustainability Officer at the One Movement and is also known for her work as a stage actor and author. Her book, “101 Ways to Go Zero Waste,” has been influential in spreading awareness about sustainable living practices.
Kathryn is the force behind the popular lifestyle website, Going Zero Waste, which she passionately dedicates to guiding others toward healthier and more environmentally friendly living. Her influence extends to Instagram, where, as of 2023, she has amassed over 450K followers and shared more than 1.5K posts. This impressive digital presence solidifies her status as one of the leading sustainability influencers on the platform. Through her multifaceted roles and commitment to environmental advocacy, Kathryn Kellogg continues to inspire and educate a growing audience on the importance and feasibility of adopting a zero-waste lifestyle.
Valeria Hinojosa, a social entrepreneur and certified yoga instructor born in Bolivia and now residing in Miami, is recognized as one of the foremost sustainability influencers. Valeria’s journey to this role is unique; she transitioned from a promising career in Private Banking, where she spent nearly five years, to follow her true calling. Driven by her passion for sustainability, she established the blog Water Thru Skin. This platform has become a hub where she shares her experiences and insights, advocating for a lifestyle that is sustainable, responsible, and holistic.
Her blog not only reflects her personal journey but also serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for others looking to make a positive change in their lives and the environment. Through her writing, Valeria encourages her readers to embrace eco-friendly practices in their daily lives, ranging from mindful traveling to conscious living. As a result, she has become a pivotal figure in the global conversation on sustainability, influencing a diverse audience with her authentic approach and commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.
Lauren Singer, an eminent environmentalist, entrepreneur, and blogger, has been a powerful force in the sustainability sphere, advocating passionately for a zero-waste lifestyle. Her journey into waste-free living began in 2012, and she soon gained widespread attention for her remarkable feat of fitting all her waste since then into a 16oz mason jar. This striking visual representation of her commitment went viral, making her a prominent voice in the sustainability movement.
In 2014, Lauren took her advocacy online, launching the blog ‘Trash is for Tossers’. Initially a personal chronicle of her zero-waste journey, it evolved into a comprehensive online platform offering practical advice, inspiration, and tips for everyday waste reduction. Concurrently, Lauren ventured into creating her own line of personal care products, aligning her purchasing habits to shun waste generation and boycott polluting companies. Her endeavor flourished, leading to the launch of an organic cleaning product made with just three ingredients. Garnering support through Kickstarter, this product made its way into both online and wholesale markets across the nation.
Lauren’s influence as a sustainability leader further solidified in 2017 with the establishment of the Package Free shop in Williamsburg. This innovative venture has been instrumental in diverting hundreds of millions of pounds of waste from landfills, marking a significant milestone in the zero-waste movement. Lauren Singer’s dedication and innovative approaches make her not just an influencer but a true trailblazer in advocating for and actualizing a sustainable, waste-free world.
Julia Watkins, celebrated as one of the top sustainability influencers, combines her love for writing and photography with a deep-seated passion for slow and simple living. She is the creative mind behind the book “Simply Living Well: A Guide to Creating a Natural Low-Waste Home.” This guide has become a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a wide array of DIY projects, homemade recipes, food preservation techniques, gardening advice, and various home practices, all aimed at fostering a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle.
Julia’s approach goes beyond mere sustainability; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that is both mindful and fulfilling. Her work encourages others to find joy and contentment in the basics, to slow down, and to reconnect with the natural world through everyday practices. By focusing on low-waste and natural living, Julia Watkins inspires a growing community to transform their homes and lives into spaces of sustainability, serenity, and ecological harmony.
Rob Greenfield, widely known as the “Trash Man” or the “Dude Making a Difference,” stands out as a dynamic and influential figure in the sustainability movement. His mission is to spread the message of sustainable living through unique and eye-catching methods. These include wearing all the trash he produces to visually demonstrate waste accumulation, foraging for food, and undertaking a penniless journey across the United States on a bamboo bicycle.
Rob’s lifestyle is predominantly outdoor-oriented, marked by extensive travel, engaging in humanitarian efforts, and speaking passionately about sustainable living. Recognized as one of the most notable male sustainability influencers in 2022, his unconventional approaches have garnered significant media attention. He has been featured on numerous prestigious platforms, including National Geographic, BBC, CBS This Morning, Discovery Channel, USA Today, LA Times, The Guardian, Huffington Post, and many others. Through his bold actions and widespread media presence, Rob Greenfield continues to challenge conventional views on sustainability, inspiring people to reconsider their environmental impact and embrace more eco-friendly lifestyles.
Based in the UK, Melissa Hemsley has carved out a niche as a celebrated chef, food columnist, and best-selling cookbook author, making her mark as one of the top sustainability influencers. Her advocacy for sustainable and planet-friendly eating is a cornerstone of her work. Melissa has authored two critically acclaimed cookbooks, “Eat Happy” in 2017 and “Eat Green” in 2020, each promoting the ethos of conscientious and eco-friendly culinary practices.
Melissa’s presence extends beyond the pages of her books. She has graced various primetime cookery shows such as “Sunday Brunch,” “Saturday Kitchen,” and “This Morning,” and has been a prominent figure at numerous food festivals across the UK and beyond. Her journey into the culinary world was influenced by her sister, Jasmine, a former model who started bringing her own food to photo sessions and eventually launched a meal delivery service. Following in her sister’s footsteps, Melissa joined the culinary path, leading to their collaborative venture: a cooking blog on the Vogue website in 2012.
Their foray into publishing began with “The Art of Eating Well” in 2014, which was succeeded by their Channel 4 TV show, “Eating Well with Hemsley & Hemsley.” Their second book, “Good + Simple,” released in 2014, further cemented their reputation. While often linked to the “clean eating” and “health” movements, Melissa and Jasmine emphasize a simple, healthy lifestyle that transcends kitchen boundaries. They focus on gluten-free, grain-free, and refined sugar-free recipes, advocating for a wholesome approach to living that is both nourishing and environmentally conscious. Through their work, Melissa Hemsley continues to inspire a broader audience to embrace a lifestyle that is healthy, sustainable, and deeply connected to the environment.
Achieving a plastic-free home may seem daunting, but Kate, recognized as a leading sustainability influencer, demonstrates its feasibility with aplomb. A staunch advocate for conscious consumerism, Kate’s passion lies in embracing preloved items, engaging in do-it-yourself projects, and championing local businesses. Her Instagram page stands as a vibrant hub, offering a wealth of inspiration and practical advice for leading an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Kate’s approach is particularly relatable for parents, as she skillfully balances environmental activism with the responsibilities of parenthood. Her content showcases how sustainable living can be seamlessly integrated into everyday family life, providing valuable insights into reducing plastic usage, making environmentally conscious purchasing decisions, and undertaking eco-friendly home projects. Through her social media presence, Kate effectively encourages her followers to embark on their own journeys towards a greener, more sustainable lifestyle, proving that environmental responsibility and family life can indeed go hand in hand.
Diana Rodgers, a renowned Licensed/Registered Nutritionist and consulting dietitian based in New England, is celebrated for her extensive work in nutrition, sustainability, and as the host of The Sustainable Dish Podcast. A sought-after speaker, Diana frequently addresses audiences at universities and international conferences, delving into topics like nutrition in relation to sustainability, social justice, animal welfare, and food policy.
Her insights and expertise are regularly featured in notable publications such as The Los Angeles Times, The Boston Globe, Outside Magazine, Mother Earth News, and MindBodyGreen. In her role as a prominent sustainability influencer, Diana not only runs a clinical nutrition practice and produces the Sustainable Dish Podcast but also travels globally to speak on human nutrition, sustainability, animal rights, and social justice.
Diana has authored two books and played a key role in producing “Soft Slaughter,” a short film that garnered a real food media prize. Her work has been spotlighted by The Los Angeles Times, The Boston Globe, and Edible Boston. Additionally, she co-authored the book “Sacred Cow” and was the producer and director of the associated film. The Sacred Cow Project, spearheaded by Diana, explores our relationship with food and advocates for a transformative approach to food production. Alongside this project, she maintains an active blog, hosts podcasts featuring food producers and health experts, and provides insightful updates on social media, furthering her impact in the world of sustainable food and nutrition.
Immy Lucas, a prominent UK-born YouTuber and environmental activist, has established herself as a leading sustainability influencer. Before venturing into full-time content creation, Immy’s career began as a Storyboard Producer at a small agency in London. Her transition to environmental activism led her to create the YouTube channel ‘Sustainably Vegan’ and the environmental initiative ‘The Low Impact Movement.’
Through these platforms, Immy documents her personal journey towards a low waste and low impact lifestyle, offering insights, advice, and inspiration to her audience. Her work focuses on making sustainable living accessible and achievable, demonstrating practical ways to reduce one’s environmental footprint. Immy’s engaging content and genuine commitment to environmental issues have resonated with a wide audience, making her an influential figure in promoting sustainable practices and eco-conscious living. Through her YouTube channel and The Low Impact Movement, Immy Lucas continues to play a vital role in educating and inspiring individuals to embrace more environmentally friendly lifestyles.
Shelbi, the visionary behind Sustainably Chic, has seen her interest in sustainability evolve from a simple hobby to a passionate life mission. As an Environmental Science graduate and one of the foremost sustainability influencers, Shelbi is dedicated to using her website and YouTube channel as platforms to educate and empower her audience about sustainable living. She aims to demonstrate that adopting a sustainable lifestyle is not only necessary but also achievable.
In addition to producing engaging content for her blog and channel, Shelbi is the host of the Ecopreneur Podcast and a contributor to the Low Impact Movement (LIM). She is also an active participant in the Ethical Writers and Creatives community. Through these various roles, Shelbi provides her followers with practical advice, the latest information on sustainability, and innovative ideas for eco-friendly living. Her work focuses on making sustainability accessible and appealing to a broad audience, helping to demystify the complexities of eco-conscious living and showcasing how individual actions can lead to significant environmental impact.
Ashley Renne, an American content creator of Jamaican and Indian descent, has risen to prominence as a sustainability influencer, with a particular focus on eco-friendly tourism and plant-based living. After discovering her passion for environmentalism, Ashley dedicated herself to producing content that revolves around sustainable travel, smart technology, and vegan living.
Her blog and YouTube channel, both named “Hey Ashley Renne,” have become platforms for education and inspiration, aiming to combat animal exploitation, protect the environment, and promote health and wellness through sustainable, plant-based changes. Ashley’s influence extends to her role as an author, with “The Vegan Baby Cookbook” under her belt, offering insights and recipes for those interested in a vegan lifestyle. Her work emphasizes the importance of making conscious choices in travel, technology, and diet, highlighting how these decisions can have a profound impact on our planet and overall well-being. As an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and content creator, Ashley Renne continues to be a powerful voice for sustainability and eco-conscious living.
Jazmine Rogers, a YouTuber based in San Diego of Black-Mexican descent, has made a name for herself as a sustainable fashion and lifestyle influencer. Her journey away from fast fashion began in 2015 during her college years, sparked by her involvement with an anti-trafficking organization. This experience opened her eyes to the impacts of fashion labor trafficking in developing countries, leading her to make a significant lifestyle change.
Initially, Jazmine chronicled her experiences on a blog, detailing her transition away from fast fashion. However, she eventually moved her platform to Instagram, broadening her focus to include various aspects of sustainable living such as reducing plastic use and opting for natural products. Further extending her influence, Jazmine launched a YouTube channel where she shares a wealth of knowledge on slow fashion. Her content includes tips on sustainable fashion, reviews of eco-friendly products, and finds from secondhand shopping. Jazmine’s approach to sustainable living is holistic and relatable, making her a prominent voice in the movement towards more ethical and environmentally conscious fashion and lifestyle choices.
Kate Nelson, a prominent sustainability influencer from New South Wales, Australia, is celebrated for her staunch advocacy of zero-waste and plastic-free living. Embracing a life without disposable plastics for over ten years, Kate has honed and developed comprehensive strategies to minimize single-use plastic consumption. Her wealth of knowledge and experience is encapsulated in her book, “I Quit Plastics,” which has been acclaimed as a practical and informative guide.
The book is a treasure trove of insights, offering detailed how-to’s, tips, and advice on various aspects of plastic-free living. From cooking and cleaning to shopping and dressing, Kate provides actionable steps for individuals looking to reduce their plastic footprint. Her approach is not just about eliminating plastic but is also a call to embrace a more sustainable and conscious lifestyle. Through her book and advocacy, Kate Nelson has become a key figure in the global movement towards environmental sustainability, inspiring and empowering others to make a significant impact through their everyday choices.
Kira Simpson, an Australian digital creator and prominent sustainability influencer, is the driving force behind The Greenhub. This platform, encompassing a fashion and lifestyle blog, directory, and online magazine, is dedicated to promoting sustainability and ethical consumerism. Kira’s work at The Greenhub focuses on curating a selection of brands and providing well-researched guides, practical tips, and comprehensive resources, all aimed at empowering individuals to make lifestyle choices that positively impact both people and the planet.
Kira firmly believes in the power of collective action, asserting that even small, individual steps can lead to significant change. She advocates for using our voices and choices as tools for change, whether through voting, investing, adopting sustainable lifestyle habits, engaging in activism, or demanding policy changes. Her message is clear: each person has the ability to contribute to shaping a better, more sustainable future. Kira Simpson’s contribution to the sustainability movement is marked by her optimism and dedication to facilitating informed and ethical consumer choices.
Anita Vandyke, a unique combination of a rocket scientist and medical doctor, breaks the mold with her thrifty, eco-conscious lifestyle. Born in Guangzhou and raised in Australia, she stands out as a leading sustainability influencer, celebrated for her dedication to minimalism, love for secondhand treasures, and commitment to a green, zero-waste lifestyle. These passions have garnered her a substantial following on Instagram, where she shares insights and tips on sustainable living.
Anita’s journey into the world of zero waste is chronicled in her first book, “A Zero Waste Life: In Thirty Days,” published by Penguin Random House, Australia. Available in all major bookstores, the book serves as a practical guide, inspiring readers to embark on their own journey towards reducing waste. Her unique background, combining science and medicine with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, makes Anita Vandyke a standout figure. She effectively bridges the gap between complex scientific understanding and everyday sustainable practices, making her a trusted and influential voice in the sustainability community.
Shia Su, a distinguished sustainability influencer residing in Canada, embarked on her zero-waste journey in 2014 and has since become a leading voice in the movement. She is the creator behind Wasteland Rebel, a blog dedicated to sustainable living, where she chronicles her own zero-waste journey and offers valuable advice on reducing trash and embracing sustainability. As an author of the book “Zero Waste,” Shia has extended her influence beyond her blog, providing a comprehensive guide to living waste-free.
Shia’s advocacy isn’t confined to her local community; she has taken her message global, sharing her unique experiences and insights on a vegan, minimalist, zero-waste lifestyle that is also mindful of avoiding plastics and palm oil. Her approach is deeply personal yet universally applicable, inspiring readers worldwide to rethink their consumption habits and make more environmentally responsible choices. Through her blog, book, and international outreach, Shia Su continues to be a pivotal figure in promoting and guiding a sustainable, waste-conscious way of life.
Aditi Mayer, based in Los Angeles, is a multifaceted personality in the sustainability sphere, known for her work as a sustainable fashion blogger, photojournalist, model, creative consultant, and speaker. Recognized as one of the top sustainability influencers, her approach to sustainable fashion is distinctively framed through inclusivity, intersectionality, and decolonization. Aditi has earned considerable respect in the sustainability movement for her advocacy on social and environmental justice within fashion, as well as for championing minority representation.
Her website, Adimay, serves as a dynamic platform where she delves into the interconnection between fashion, sustainability, and social justice. Through Adimay, Aditi offers insightful and thought-provoking content, shedding light on how style can be a powerful tool for change. Her work emphasizes the importance of considering the ethical and environmental aspects of fashion while advocating for inclusivity and diversity in the industry. Aditi Mayer’s contributions continue to inspire and educate, as she remains a compelling voice advocating for a more equitable and sustainable fashion world.
Based in Kansas City, Megean Weldon has made a significant mark as a sustainability influencer with her website, Zero Waste Nerd. Driven by a desire to assist others in minimizing waste and embracing simplicity, Megean’s website has become a go-to resource for those seeking a more sustainable lifestyle.
Her recent publication, “An Almost Zero Waste Life,” is a testament to her commitment to environmental stewardship. This book is a comprehensive guide, packed with practical tips, effective strategies, and a variety of recipes and DIY projects. These resources are designed to empower readers to reduce waste and adopt sustainable living practices. Megean’s work, both online and in print, reflects her dedication to the zero-waste movement and her passion for helping others make meaningful changes towards a more eco-conscious way of life.
Lindsay Miles, acclaimed as a leading sustainability influencer, embodies the ethos of zero-waste and plastic-free living. As an educator and the founding Director of the Plastic Free Foundation, she has been at the forefront of advocating for a more sustainable lifestyle. Since 2013, Lindsay has been actively sharing her knowledge and ideas on her widely-followed website, Treading My Own Path, helping others to navigate the journey towards reducing waste.
Her literary contributions include two notable books: “Less Stuff” (2019), which explores redefining our relationship with material possessions from a zero-waste perspective, and “The Less Waste No Fuss Kitchen” (2020), providing practical advice for reducing kitchen waste. Lindsay’s expertise and advocacy have not only been limited to her writings and website; she has also gained international recognition, with features in prominent media outlets such as The Guardian, The Sunday Times, and TreeHugger. Additionally, her ideas have been shared on global platforms like TEDx, further amplifying her message of environmental stewardship. Through her comprehensive work, Lindsay Miles continues to inspire and educate on the importance of minimizing waste and embracing sustainable practices.
Jonathan Levy, widely known as The Zero Waste Guy, stands out as a leading figure among male sustainability influencers in 2022. His extensive background in waste management has catapulted him to prominence as one of the top Environmental Consultants in the United States. Jonathan’s notable achievements include implementing effective recycling programs in over 100 schools within a Los Angeles district and playing a pivotal role in guiding more than 2000 businesses into the City of Los Angeles’ recycLA program.
His active presence across various social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Blogger, and Twitter, is testament to his commitment to raising awareness about waste reduction. On these platforms, Jonathan not only documents wasteful practices but also offers straightforward solutions and eco-friendly alternatives. His approach is practical and relatable, encouraging people to adopt more sustainable habits in their everyday lives. Jonathan Levy’s work exemplifies his dedication to environmental stewardship and his ability to inspire a broad audience to engage in meaningful change towards zero waste living.
As we stand at the crossroads of environmental change, the future of climate activism is poised to take an even more dynamic and impactful turn. The evolution of this movement is likely to be shaped by a confluence of technological advancements, heightened public awareness, and a growing sense of urgency. We can anticipate a future where climate action becomes deeply embedded in both our individual lifestyles and collective consciousness, driven by an ever-expanding digital landscape.
In this future, technology will play a crucial role, offering new tools for monitoring environmental changes, sharing information, and mobilizing collective action. Social media platforms will continue to serve as powerful vehicles for raising awareness and fostering global conversations about climate change. We’ll see a proliferation of apps and digital platforms designed to help individuals track their carbon footprint, reduce waste, and make sustainable choices in their daily lives.
The role of influencers in this evolving scenario is pivotal. As voices of authority and trust, influencers have the unique ability to demystify complex environmental issues and present them in a relatable manner. They can mobilize their followers into action, turning awareness into a tangible impact. Influencers will likely delve deeper into collaborations with scientists, policymakers, and environmental organizations, bridging the gap between knowledge and action.
The future of climate activism is one of interconnectedness, where local actions resonate on a global scale. Influencers will continue to play a significant role, evolving from mere advocates to catalysts of change, driving forward a movement that is no longer a choice but a necessity for our survival and the well-being of our planet. Their narratives will inspire generations, turning apathy into action, and despair into hope, as we collectively work towards a sustainable and equitable future.
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