The Goldman Environmental Prize, often dubbed the “Green Nobel,” honors grassroots environmental activists who risk everything to protect the planet. In 2025, seven extraordinary individuals from across the globe were recognized for their fearless actions and lasting impact. None waited for top-down solutions — they led the change themselves.
Semia Gharbi from Tunisia uncovered an illegal shipment of Italian waste disguised as recyclable plastic. Her efforts led to high-level arrests and the return of 6,000 tons of garbage back to Italy.
Mari Luz Canaquiri Murayari from Peru, an Indigenous leader, achieved a groundbreaking court ruling recognizing the Marañón River as a living entity with legal rights — a first in Peru.
Carlos Mallo Molina from Spain (Tenerife) halted a port project near a marine reserve, protecting the only officially designated whale sanctuary in Europe.
Besjana Guri and Olsi Nika from Albania fought for nearly a decade to save the Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Their campaign led to the creation of Europe’s first national park dedicated to a river ecosystem.
Laurene Allen (USA) shut down a toxic factory contaminating local water and championed the country’s first national standards for dangerous “forever chemicals.”
Batmunkh Luvsandash form Mongolia protected 200,000 acres of the Eastern Gobi Desert from mining — preserving both biodiversity and local ways of life. These heroes remind us: real change starts with brave individuals who act when no one else will