The Independent has published its second annual Climate 100 List, recognising the world's leading environmentalists, campaigners, and innovators working to combat global warming. The list, released during Climate Week NYC, highlights individuals and organisations dedicated to positive climate solutions, from long-term contributors to recent notable figures.
The publication comes amid worsening climate conditions, with 2024 setting a new global temperature record following 2023's high. The UK experienced its hottest spring and summer since 1884, with droughts and wildfires. Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, described the UK as one of the most 'nature-depleted countries in the world', urging action on the climate and nature crisis.
Internationally, attitudes vary: Donald Trump's scepticism has led to rolled-back green initiatives and increased fossil fuel reliance, while Florida faced its worst drought in 24 years and the LA fires in January displaced thousands. Even Nordic countries saw extensive heatwaves, and scientists warn that rapid Antarctic sea ice loss may accelerate irreversible global consequences.
Among those featured are British-Nigerian writer Abi Daré, who won the first Climate Fiction prize in May 2025 for her novel And So I Roar, which explores the climate crisis's social impacts on rural Nigerian women and girls. Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky is recognised for his decades-long work documenting humanity's environmental footprint through stark aerial images of oil fields, mines, and deforested areas.
The list also includes five unsung climate heroes nominated by readers. The Independent will host a Climate 100 event during Climate Week NYC, featuring a keynote speech by Greg Jackson, founder and CEO of Octopus Energy. Sir David Attenborough's recent Ocean documentary, highlighting the ocean's regenerative capacity, offers a note of hope amid the challenges.
