Singer Ellie Goulding has spoken of her immense pride after being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the New Year Honours list. The 39-year-old received the accolade for her significant services to biodiversity and the climate.
A Career Dedicated to Environmental Advocacy
Ellie Goulding has served as a global environmental ambassador for the United Nations since 2017. She marked the honour by sharing a series of photographs on Instagram, highlighting key moments from her activist journey. The images included her addressing the United Nations, a meeting with former US Vice Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, and a collaboration with renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough.
In her social media post, the artist wrote: 'It is such a great honour to receive an MBE for services to biodiversity and climate. From the get go I have been guided and helped by women in this space.' She reflected on the intensifying climate and nature crisis witnessed last year, praising the 'incredible women holding the line' across various fields.
Notable Initiatives and Collaborations
Goulding's environmental commitment spans over a decade. In 2013, she performed at the Chime For Change concert, a female empowerment initiative founded by Beyoncé, Salma Hayek-Pinault, and Frida Giannini. Her patronage extends to The Marylebone Project, which supports homeless women, and she is an ambassador for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
In September 2018, she challenged the fashion industry to adopt sustainable practices while accepting an Eco Award. The following month, she addressed 85 heads of state at the Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference in London. The singer also participated in the 2019 One Young World Summit, focusing on climate change and human rights.
Her innovative project in 2023 saw 'Nature' recognised as an official artist on major music streaming platforms. Goulding collaborated on a track using sounds from Colombian rainforests, including the calls of speckled chachalacas and Amazonian oropendolas, with royalties directed towards conservation funding.
Personal Milestones and Recognition
Beyond her public work, Ellie Goulding is a mother to a son, Arthur, born in 2021 to her former husband, art dealer Caspar Jopling. Concluding her message of thanks for the congratulations received, she signed off: 'Love, Dr Ellie Goulding MBE.' Her award solidifies her position as a leading voice in the UK's environmental and biodiversity movement, leveraging her platform for global impact.
