Famous American Environmental Activists

Erin Brockovich is an American paralegal, consumer advocate, and environmental activist known for her role in the groundbreaking case against Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) in 1993. This case, depicted in the film Erin Brockovich (2000), led to significant changes. Brockovich has since become a prominent media figure, hosting TV shows, and serving as president of Brockovich Research & Consulting. She works as a consultant for law firms in the US and Australia, specializing in personal injury claims related to asbestos exposure.

T. Boone Pickens Jr. was a prominent American business magnate and financier known for chairing the hedge fund BP Capital Management. He gained fame as a takeover operator and corporate raider in the 1980s. Pickens was a key figure in the business world, with a net worth of $500 million as of November 2016. His strategic approach to investments and acquisitions made him a respected figure in the financial industry, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of business.

Eustace Conway is an American naturalist known for his ownership of the 1,000-acre Turtle Island Preserve in Boone, North Carolina. His dedication to living a simple and self-sufficient lifestyle has been highlighted in various media, including being the subject of books like The Last American Man by Elizabeth Gilbert and Adventures in the Simple Life by Sarah Vowell. Conway's commitment to nature and sustainable living has also been showcased on the History channel show Mountain Men, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the naturalist community.

Laurie David is a prominent American environmental activist, producer, and writer known for her impactful work in raising awareness about environmental issues. She gained widespread recognition for producing the Academy Award-winning documentary "An Inconvenient Truth" (2006) and for her collaboration with Katie Couric on the film "Fed Up" (2014), which focused on the causes of obesity in the United States. Laurie also plays an active role in various environmental organizations, serving as a trustee on the Natural Resources Defense Council and contributing as a blogger to The Huffington Post.

Peter Benchley was an American author, screenwriter, and environmental activist known for his bestselling novel Jaws, which he co-wrote the movie adaptation for. His works, including The Deep, The Island, Beast, and White Shark, were also adapted for film and television. Later in his life, Benchley expressed regret for his portrayal of sharks in his writing, becoming an advocate for marine conservation. Despite rumors suggesting otherwise, there is no evidence that his works contributed to shark depopulation.

Patrick Hemingway is an American wildlife manager, writer, and big-game hunter. He spent 25 years living in East Africa, where he owned a safari business and taught conservation and wildlife at the Wildlife Management College in Tanzania. He later moved to Montana, where he managed his father's intellectual property estate. Patrick also edited and published his father's unpublished novel about a 1950s safari to Africa, titled "True at First Light" in 1999.

Gary Snyder is an American poet, essayist, lecturer, and environmental activist known for his association with the Beat Generation and the San Francisco Renaissance. Described as the "poet laureate of Deep Ecology," he has won a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry and the American Book Award. Snyder's work reflects his immersion in Buddhist spirituality and nature, and he is also recognized for translating literature from ancient Chinese and modern Japanese. He has served as an academic at the University of California, Davis, and as a member of the California Arts Council.

Douglas Tompkins was an American businessman, conservationist, and philanthropist known for founding The North Face Inc and co-founding Esprit. Transitioning from the business world in 1989, he focused on environmental and land conservation causes. Alongside his second wife, Kris McDivitt Tompkins, he acquired and preserved over 2 million acres of wilderness in Chile, making them among the largest private landowners globally. Their efforts were centered on park creation, wildlife recovery, ecological agriculture, and activism to save biodiversity, culminating in a significant gift of land to the Chilean government.

Aldo Leopold was a prominent American figure known for his multifaceted career as a writer, philosopher, naturalist, scientist, ecologist, forester, conservationist, and environmentalist. He held a professorship at the University of Wisconsin and gained widespread recognition for his influential book, A Sand County Almanac. Leopold played a pivotal role in shaping modern environmental ethics, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity, ecology, and wildlife preservation. He was a key figure in the wilderness conservation movement and made significant contributions to the field of wildlife management.

Philippe Cousteau Jr. is an American oceanographer and environmental activist known for his work in educating the public about environmental and conservation issues. He has continued the legacy of his father and grandfather, Philippe and Jacques Cousteau, by raising awareness on important ocean-related topics. Cousteau received an Emmy nomination in 2017 for hosting the syndicated science series Awesome Planet, showcasing his dedication to promoting scientific knowledge and environmental consciousness through various media platforms.

Alexandra Cousteau is a renowned filmmaker, sustainability keynote speaker, and environmental activist. She is dedicated to continuing the impactful work of her grandfather, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, and father, Philippe Cousteau. Through her advocacy efforts, Cousteau emphasizes the critical importance of conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of ocean and water resources. Her professional endeavors focus on promoting a healthy planet and fostering productive societies by raising awareness about environmental issues and advocating for positive change through her work as a filmmaker and public speaker.

David Brower was a pioneering environmentalist who founded numerous influential organizations dedicated to conservation and environmental protection. He served as the Executive Director of the Sierra Club from 1952 to 1969 and was involved with the organization for many years. Brower also founded organizations such as Friends of the Earth and the Earth Island Institute. He was a dedicated advocate for environmental causes and played a key role in shaping the modern environmental movement through his activism and leadership.

Timothy Treadwell was an American bear enthusiast, environmentalist, documentary filmmaker, and founder of the bear-protection organization Grizzly People. He dedicated 13 summers of his life to living among coastal brown bears in Katmai National Park, Alaska. His passion for bear conservation led him to establish Grizzly People, advocating for the protection of these majestic creatures. Treadwell's professional endeavors and tragic death were later explored in Werner Herzog's documentary film Grizzly Man, shedding light on his unique and controversial approach to wildlife preservation.

Dennis Kucinich is a former U.S. Representative and mayor known for his liberal political views. He served as mayor of Cleveland and later as a Congressman from Ohio's 10th district. Kucinich made unsuccessful runs for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004 and 2008, advocating for issues like opposing the Iraq War, single-payer healthcare, and the impeachment of Vice President Dick Cheney. Following redistricting, he lost a primary election to Representative Marcy Kaptur and later worked as a Fox News contributor. Kucinich has run for governor and mayor in Ohio, and plans to run for Congress as an independent in 2024.

Isra Hirsi is an American environmental activist known for her role as the co-founder and co-executive director of the U.S. Youth Climate Strike. In 2020, she was recognized in Fortune's 40 Under 40 Government and Politics list for her contributions to the climate activism movement. Hirsi has been actively involved in advocating for climate action and raising awareness about environmental issues among the youth population. Her leadership and dedication have made a significant impact on the efforts to address climate change and promote sustainability.

Carol Martha Browner is an accomplished American lawyer, environmentalist, and businesswoman. She served as the Director of the White House Office of Energy and Climate Change Policy in the Obama administration and was the longest-serving Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency during the Clinton presidency. Browner played a key role in reorganizing enforcement structures, implementing new programs, and advocating for environmental laws. She has been involved in various environmental organizations, energy- and agriculture-related companies, and has advocated for nuclear energy in response to climate change concerns.

Amory Bloch Lovins is an American writer, physicist, and former chairman/chief scientist of the Rocky Mountain Institute. With a focus on energy policy, Lovins has been a prominent advocate for energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and localized energy generation. He has served on the US National Petroleum Council and is known for promoting the concept of a "negawatt revolution," emphasizing the importance of providing energy services rather than just kilowatt-hours of electricity. Lovins has authored multiple books and played a key role in designing the ultra-efficient automobile, the Hypercar.

Julia Butterfly Hill is an American environmental activist and tax redirection advocate known for her remarkable act of living in a 200-foot-tall California redwood tree named Luna for 738 days to prevent loggers from cutting it down. Her dedication and perseverance led to an agreement with the Pacific Lumber Company to save the tree. Hill is also a published author, with works including The Legacy of Luna and co-authorship of One Makes the Difference, reflecting her commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living practices.

George Perkins Marsh was an American diplomat and philologist known for his contributions to environmental conservation. He is considered America's first environmentalist for recognizing the irreversible impact of human actions on the earth. His work laid the foundation for the sustainability concept. Marsh's influential 1864 book, "Man and Nature," highlighted the importance of conservation and had a significant global impact. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Vermont pays tribute to his legacy, emphasizing his role in promoting environmental awareness and conservation efforts.

Lady Miss Kier, also known as Kierin Magenta Kirby, is a multi-talented American artist, recognized for her roles as a singer, songwriter, and DJ. She gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Deee-Lite, known for their hit song "Groove Is in the Heart." Throughout her career, Lady Miss Kier has not only showcased her musical talents but has also been actively involved in social, environmental, and human rights activism, using her platform to advocate for important causes.

Wanjira Mathai is a prominent Kenyan environmentalist and activist currently serving as the Managing Director for Africa and Global Partnerships at the World Resources Institute in Nairobi. She addresses global issues such as deforestation and energy access in her role. Recognized for her influential work, Mathai was named one of the 100 Most Influential Africans by New African magazine in 2018. Her significant contributions include serving as a senior advisor at the World Resources Institute and leading a campaign to plant over 30 million trees through the Green Belt Movement.

Andrea Mead Lawrence was an accomplished American alpine ski racer and environmentalist. She participated in three Winter Olympics and one World Championship. Notably, she was the first American alpine skier to secure two Olympic gold medals. Lawrence's professional life was marked by her exceptional achievements on the slopes, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Furthermore, her commitment to environmental causes highlighted her broader impact beyond skiing, demonstrating her passion for preserving the natural world.

Rosalie Edge was a pioneering American environmentalist and suffragist known for her fierce advocacy for conservation and species preservation. In 1929, she founded the Emergency Conservation Committee to challenge the established conservation practices. Edge also established the world's first preserve for birds of prey, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, in 1934. She was considered a militant conservationist and frequently clashed with leaders of the Audubon Society over wildlife preservation methods. A colleague described her as "the only honest, unselfish, indomitable hellcat in the history of conservation."

Charles J. Moore is a renowned marine researcher and environmental activist with over 20 years of experience in studying plastic pollution in the world's oceans. He is the founder of the Algalita Marine Research and Education organization and The Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research. Moore gained widespread recognition for his discovery of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and has led various expeditions to raise awareness about plastic debris in our oceans. His work has significantly impacted the field of marine conservation and continues to inspire efforts to combat plastic pollution globally.

Dorothy Mae Stang, SND was a dedicated member of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, known for her advocacy on behalf of the poor and the environment. She worked tirelessly in the Amazon Basin, particularly in Anapu, Pará, where she fearlessly stood up against loggers and landowners who threatened the local communities and the rainforest. Stang's commitment to social justice and environmental protection made her a prominent figure in the fight for land rights and sustainable development in the region.

Christian J. Lambertsen was an American environmental medicine and diving medicine specialist known for his significant contributions to underwater warfare technology. He developed the United States Navy frogmen's rebreathers in the early 1940s, which were crucial for covert underwater operations. Lambertsen designed a series of rebreathers and pioneered innovative breathing apparatus, eventually leading to the creation of SCUBA technology. His work earned him the title of "the father of the Frogmen" by the US Navy, recognizing his pioneering role in the field of diving equipment.

Nicole Hernandez Hammer is an American climate scientist and activist known for her work on studying sea level rise and the unequal effects of climate change on marginalized communities. She serves as a climate advocate for the Union of Concerned Scientists, advocating for policies addressing environmental justice. With a background as the former deputy director of the Florida Center for Environmental Studies, she brings expertise in understanding and communicating the intersection of climate change, sea level rise, and social equity to drive meaningful change in environmental policy and advocacy.

Russell W. Peterson was an American scientist and politician from Wilmington, Delaware. He served as Governor of Delaware as a member of the Republican Party. Peterson was also known for his influential work as an environmentalist, serving as chairman of the Council on Environmental Quality and president of the National Audubon Society. Throughout his professional life, he was dedicated to environmental conservation efforts, advocating for policies and initiatives that aimed to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations.

Edgar Arthur Wayburn was a prominent American environmentalist known for his leadership as the president of the Sierra Club in the 1960s. His dedication and advocacy led to significant accomplishments in the preservation of America's natural heritage, including the establishment of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, expansion of Redwood National Park and Point Reyes National Seashore, and enlargement of Mount Tamalpais State Park. Wayburn's efforts have solidified his legacy as a key figure in conservation and environmental protection.

Hazel Wolf was a dedicated activist and environmentalist based in Seattle, known for her commitment to various causes. Her professional life was marked by her involvement in the Communist Party, where she advocated for immigration issues. She also played a significant role in the Seattle Audubon Society, serving as secretary for 35 years. Wolf's work extended beyond environmental concerns, as she worked to build coalitions that transcended boundaries of race, gender, and class, leaving a lasting impact on her community.

LaDonna Brave Bull Allard was a prominent Native American Dakota and Lakota historian and genealogist. She was a key figure in the water protector movement, playing a significant role in the resistance against the Dakota Access Pipeline near the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in North Dakota. Allard co-founded the resistance camps in April 2016, which garnered international attention and support. Through her activism and leadership, she became a matriarch of the movement, advocating for environmental protection and indigenous rights.

Carrie Nation was a prominent figure in the temperance movement, known for her radical actions against alcohol-serving establishments. She gained notoriety for attacking taverns with a hatchet to promote temperance and combat the societal issues she believed were caused by drunkenness. Nation was also involved in charitable and religious work, founding initiatives such as sewing circles to support the poor and establishing shelters for wives and children of alcoholics. She expressed strong opposition towards Freemasonry and advocated against women wearing tight clothing like corsets.

Fatima Jibrell is a prominent Somali-American environmental activist known for her impactful work in the Horn of Africa region. She co-founded the Horn of Africa Relief and Development Organization (now Adeso) and played a key role in establishing the Women's Coalition for Peace. Jibrell's dedication to environmental causes is evident through her involvement in initiatives like Sun Fire Cooking, which promotes sustainable cooking practices. Her professional life is characterized by a commitment to humanitarian efforts, environmental conservation, and empowerment of women in conflict-affected regions.

James F. Phillips was an American schoolteacher and environmental activist known for his direct action in the Chicago area during the 1960s. He gained recognition for his environmental advocacy efforts under the pseudonym The Fox. Phillips dedicated his professional life to raising awareness about environmental issues and taking action to protect the natural world. Through his work as an educator and activist, he inspired others to get involved in environmental conservation and make a positive impact on their surroundings.

John Easterling is a prominent American businessman and environmentalist, serving as the CEO and chairman of Amazon Herb Company. Known as "Amazon John," he advocates for eco-commerce as a solution for rainforest sustainability, health improvement, and wealth generation. With a degree in environmental studies, he is an eco-entrepreneur and visionary leader, emphasizing the role of new-age entrepreneurs in promoting health and success. Easterling has also produced Hollywood movies and TV projects, showcasing his diverse talents and commitment to environmental causes. A recipient of the SAFE Water Award, he serves as a role model for aspiring businessmen.