An environmentalist is a person who understands the importance of having a healthy planet. If our world is thriving and balanced, we will in turn become a healthier society.

Over the years there have been hundreds of famous environmentalists. With advances in science and observation, the movement began to grow. What started as a dominantly male occupation is now a passion that can be shared by everyone. Today, some of the greatest environmentalists are women.

Learn about these inspiring women who have risked their lives to keep our planet healthy and safe for all of us—humans and animals alike.

Berta Isabel Cáceres Flores (1971-2016)

Born in Honduras, Berta Isabel Cáceres Flores was an advocate not only for the environment but for the rights of the Indigenous people of the area. She led movements against poorly thought-out constructions, such as a dam that would have cut off food and water from the native Lenca people. She was vocal in her opposition to harmful mining and logging. When Cáceres Flores was murdered in 2016, her legacy did not vanish. Her example remains as an inspiration for younger generations of all nationalities who believe that the planet should be treated with respect.

Winona LaDuke
Based in the White Earth Indian Reservation in Mississippi, Winona LaDuke stands as a daring political voice for the Indigenous communities of the area. She founded the White Earth Land Recovery Project, a movement aiming to restore the original land base of the White Earth Indian Reservation. It also hopes to preserve Indigenous practices of language fluency, land stewardship, and cultural heritage. Her foundation is one of the largest non-profit organizations in the United States dedicated to tribal rights.

Wangari Maathai (1940-2011)

Born in Kenya, Wangari Maathai was the driving force behind a movement that led to the planting of over 51 million trees in her native land. Maathai studied biology as an undergraduate and later joined her voice to hundreds of others advocating for our planet. Her efforts to achieve sustainable development earned her a Nobel Peace Prize.

With so many issues to grapple with daily, it is easy to put environmental health on the back burner. The truth is that losing our planet would be the greatest tragedy of all, and it could happen if nothing is done to prevent the worst. To become an environmentalist, educate yourself and join one of the organizations dedicated to preserving our home.