The Independent has released the third edition of its Climate 100 list, spotlighting leading figures and organizations worldwide who are driving efforts to address the climate crisis. The annual compilation celebrates a diverse array of environmental advocates, innovators, and campaigners recognized for their significant contributions to mitigating climate change.
The publication comes amid mounting evidence of the climate emergency’s impact, underscored by extreme weather events across the globe. The United Kingdom experienced its hottest summer on record, with temperatures reaching as high as 38.1°C. This period included five separate heatwaves beginning in May, unusual wildfires in Scotland’s Cairngorms, and disruptions such as school and nursery closures. A Greenpeace UK-commissioned poll found that many in the country remain unprepared for rising temperatures, citing a 300 percent increase in demand for air conditioning and over 2,700 excess deaths in England and Wales linked to the heat, according to the UK Met Office.
These climate impacts were also highly visible during this year’s FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States. The tournament faced challenges from extreme heat and humidity, prompting the installation of air conditioning in stadiums and the introduction of mandatory hydration breaks for players contending with temperatures reaching 33°C.
Looking ahead, meteorologists warn of a “super” El Niño event originating in the Pacific Ocean, which is expected to produce wetter, stormier conditions this winter in the UK, alongside particularly severe weather in parts of Asia and Africa.
Despite the escalating challenges, there are signs of evolving public attitudes and concrete action. London has seen a 40 percent reduction in deaths related to air pollution, and educational reforms such as the introduction of a Natural History GCSE aim to raise environmental awareness among younger generations. Additionally, renewable energy has made significant strides in Europe, accounting for nearly half of gross energy consumption in 2025—up from 16 percent in 2004, according to data from Eurostat.
The Climate 100 list is not ranked but serves as recognition for a wide range of contributors. It features both recent climate leaders and those with longstanding commitments, including five unsung heroes nominated by readers. The announcement coincides with Climate Week NYC, a major global environmental event during which The Independent will host a dedicated Climate 100 gathering. The program will include a keynote address from David Miliband, CEO of the International Rescue Committee.
Through this initiative, the publication aims to showcase individuals and groups tackling some of the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges, highlighting innovation, resilience, and progress amid an increasingly urgent global crisis.