As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s important to reflect not only on the progress made toward gender equality but also on the incredible women who are spearheading the fight against climate change in the UK. Women in the UK are at the forefront of environmental activism, policy change, and community-led solutions, proving that gender equality and climate action go hand in hand. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate these trailblazing women who are accelerating climate action and showing us the way forward for a sustainable future.
UK Women Accelerating Climate Action
1. Caroline Lucas: Champion of Green Politics
Caroline Lucas, the UK’s first and only Green Party Member of Parliament (MP), has been a vocal advocate for climate action and environmental justice throughout her career. As the MP for Brighton Pavilion, she has consistently pushed for stronger climate policies, including supporting the UK’s legally binding commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. Lucas also works to raise awareness about the links between climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequalities. Her tireless campaigning and policy work have made her a leading figure in the UK’s green politics.
2. Mary Robinson: A Global Voice for Climate Justice
Originally from Ireland, Mary Robinson’s influence on climate change policy in the UK and globally cannot be overstated. As the former President of Ireland and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, she has been a prominent advocate for integrating climate action with social justice. In 2021, she called for urgent climate action in the UK, highlighting how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, particularly women and children in developing countries. Her work through the Mary Robinson Foundation – Climate Justice continues to inspire leaders in the UK to push for more inclusive, fair, and sustainable policies.
3. Emma Howard Boyd: Leading the Environment Agency
Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency, has played a pivotal role in shaping the UK’s response to climate change, particularly in terms of environmental protection and flood resilience. Her leadership focuses on how the UK can build more sustainable infrastructure and ensure that climate adaptation policies are fair and effective. Boyd’s work is crucial in influencing the government’s approach to both mitigation and adaptation strategies. She is also an advocate for ensuring that climate action is integrated with broader social issues, such as poverty and inequality.
4. Lizzie Carr: Pioneering Environmentalist and Entrepreneur
Lizzie Carr is an environmental advocate, entrepreneur, and the first woman to paddleboard the entire length of the UK’s longest river, the River Severn, in an effort to raise awareness about plastic pollution. As the founder of Planet Patrol, a social enterprise aimed at tackling plastic pollution, Carr has used her platform to encourage individuals to take action in their communities. Her innovative approach to activism, combining sport, adventure, and environmentalism has inspired thousands to engage in grassroots efforts to reduce waste and protect the natural world.
5. Tara Shine: Climate Scientist and Policy Expert
Tara Shine, an expert in climate change and sustainability, is known for her work advising governments, NGOs, and international organisations on climate policy. Based in the UK, Shine has worked extensively on the global stage, particularly in relation to climate adaptation and development. As an advocate for climate justice, Shine has emphasized the need for the UK to support the world’s most vulnerable countries in their efforts to tackle climate change. Her work highlights how vital it is for nations like the UK to play an active role in global climate diplomacy and action.
6. Clare Moriarty: Leading the Government’s Net-Zero Strategy
Clare Moriarty, the former Permanent Secretary of the UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), played a key role in developing the UK’s long-term strategy for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. In this position, Moriarty helped navigate complex environmental challenges and guided policy development on climate change mitigation. She has been an advocate for policies that address both the environmental and economic aspects of climate change, making sure that the transition to a low-carbon economy is both effective and fair for all citizens.
7. Dr. Emily Shuckburgh: Climate Scientist and Advocate
Dr. Emily Shuckburgh, a leading climate scientist and researcher at the University of Cambridge, has been a vocal advocate for climate action in the UK. Shuckburgh’s work focuses on understanding the impacts of climate change on polar ice and global weather patterns. She is also deeply committed to raising public awareness of the urgency of climate action. Through her research and public outreach, Shuckburgh aims to make climate science more accessible and to encourage individuals and organisations in the UK to take concrete steps toward reducing their carbon footprint.
These incredible women are making an undeniable impact on the climate movement. Whether they are advocating for policy changes, leading scientific research, or empowering individuals to take action in their own communities, they are helping shape the future of the planet in meaningful ways. Their leadership not only brings much-needed solutions to the climate crisis but also highlights the critical role that women play in driving global sustainability.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the achievements of these inspiring women and commit to accelerating climate action in the UK and beyond. By supporting women’s leadership and ensuring that diverse voices are heard in the climate conversation, we can create a more sustainable, equitable world for everyone.
Happy International Women’s Day! Let’s continue to support the incredible women leading the way for climate action in the UK and across the globe. 🌍💚
