While much of the world is still trying to grapple with the increasing climate crisis, a few stalwart politicians have risen through the ranks and become some of the strongest voices towards environmental action. In this sense, spearheading crucial movements, implementing bold policies, and inspiring others has become paramount for these leaders in taking up the fight against climate change. This article pinpoints five influential climate change politicians who go the extra step in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time.
- Mia Mottley:
Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, is now evolving as an implacable voice for climate action, especially more poignantly for Small Island nations and Developing Countries. She is known for being the brains behind the establishment of Global South Climate Partnerships and has been very instrumental in raising awareness of how asymmetrical the effects of climate change are on vulnerable nations and in making a call for fair solutions on the world stage.
- Carlos Manuel Rodriguez:
As the Costa Rican Minister of Environment and Energy, Carlos Manuel Rodriguez has championed some very novel methods for environmental protection. His work on the Incentives for Sustainable Use of the Environment has placed Costa Rica at the forefront in the field of conservation and has shown a way in which economic development and ecological preservation can go hand in hand.
- Anne Hidalgo:
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has been in the vanguard of this city-level climate action. She has spearheaded the major transitions in climate policy in Paris and is setting an important example to other urban centers worldwide. She initiated expansion in biking lanes and pedestrian areas, showing ways in which cities can take crucial roles in the fight against climate change.
- Jay Inslee:
Washington State Governor Jay Inslee has made a name for himself as a leader on state-level renewable energy transitions. His policies and writings show how states are willing to take some major steps toward cleaner energy-even in the absence of rigorous federal action.
- Teresa Ribera:
As Minister for Ecological Transition of Spain, Teresa Ribera became one of the major voices that advocated for far-reaching climate policy in her country. Her work on the ecological transition plan of Spain set a benchmark for other countries because setting an example of comprehensively designed policy frameworks accelerates the gait with which a nation strides toward sustainability.
