Famous Canadian Environmental Activists

David Suzuki is a Canadian academic, science broadcaster, and environmental activist. He earned a PhD in zoology from the University of Chicago and served as a professor at the University of British Columbia. Suzuki is renowned for his television and radio series, documentaries, and books on nature and the environment. He is best known for hosting the CBC Television show The Nature of Things. Suzuki co-founded the David Suzuki Foundation in 1990, which focuses on environmental issues such as climate change, sustainable fishing, and clean energy. He has received awards for his environmental advocacy work.

Paul Watson is a prominent Canadian-American environmental, conservation, and animal rights activist known for founding the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. He advocates for marine conservation through direct action and anti-poaching efforts, often using controversial tactics. Watson's career has been marked by legal challenges and international attention, with accusations of eco-terrorism from authorities in various countries. He is a vocal proponent of veganism, population reduction, and a biocentric worldview. Despite controversies, Watson's work has garnered both support and criticism within the environmental community.

Patrick Moore is a Canadian industry consultant and former activist who was an early member and past president of Greenpeace Canada. After leaving Greenpeace in 1986, Moore criticized the environmental movement for what he perceived as scare tactics and disinformation. He has taken public stances against major environmental groups on issues such as forestry, nuclear energy, genetically modified organisms, and pesticide use. Moore has also denied the scientific consensus on climate change, advocating for views that conflict with mainstream scientific understanding of its impacts.

Robert Hunter was a prominent Canadian environmentalist, journalist, author, and politician. He co-founded Greenpeace in 1971 and served as its first president, leading pioneering anti-whaling campaigns that contributed to the ban on commercial whaling. He was actively involved in campaigns against nuclear testing, the Canadian seal hunt, and climate change. His book "Thermageddon: Countdown to 2030" further emphasized his commitment to environmental causes. Recognized as an "Eco-Hero" by Time magazine, Hunter's professional life was characterized by tireless advocacy and activism for environmental conservation.

Elizabeth May is a Canadian politician, environmentalist, author, activist, and lawyer. She has served as the leader of the Green Party of Canada since 2022, previously holding the position from 2006 to 2019. May has been the Member of Parliament for Saanich—Gulf Islands since 2011. She has a background in environmental law and policy, having worked as an environmental lawyer in Halifax and as the executive director of the Sierra Club Canada. May is known for her advocacy on environmental issues and has received numerous accolades for her work, including being named one of the leading women environmentalists worldwide by the United Nations.

Severn Cullis-Suzuki is a prominent Canadian environmental activist and writer known for her impassioned speeches on global environmental issues. She has traveled extensively to speak about the urgent need for individuals to prioritize environmental values, consider future generations, and take personal responsibility for sustainable actions. Through her advocacy work, Cullis-Suzuki has inspired audiences worldwide to engage in environmental activism and work towards a more sustainable future for our planet.

Farley Mowat was a renowned Canadian writer and environmentalist known for his impactful works that were translated into numerous languages and sold millions of copies worldwide. He gained fame for his books focusing on the Canadian north, particularly "People of the Deer" and "Never Cry Wolf," the latter of which was adapted into a successful film. Mowat's advocacy for environmental causes was widely praised, though his controversial statement about prioritizing truth over facts received significant backlash. His writing style was celebrated for its vivid imagery and strong convictions, evoking mixed reactions from readers and critics alike.

David Fraser McTaggart was a Canadian environmentalist known for his pivotal role in founding Greenpeace International. He initially gained recognition as a successful badminton player before transitioning to activism. McTaggart gained international attention by using his personal boat to protest French nuclear testing in the Pacific, ultimately leading to the end of the testing program. He went on to champion various environmental causes, including the establishment of the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary. McTaggart also founded the Third Millennium Foundation to promote disarmament, peace, and sustainability initiatives globally.

Jim Bohlen began his professional career as an engineer in the US, where he collaborated with the navy and defense departments. However, disillusioned by the American government's nuclear policy, he relocated to Canada. There, he co-founded the globally renowned environmental organization Greenpeace and became a prominent activist for the Green Party. Bohlen's transition from engineering to environmental advocacy highlights his commitment to addressing pressing global issues and promoting sustainability through his impactful work with these influential organizations.

Ben Metcalfe, a Canadian journalist, began his professional life by advocating for environmental causes. He became involved in environmental issues after witnessing the displacement of the Sekani First Nation due to flooding in the name of progress. Metcalfe furthered his activism by joining protests against U.S. army nuclear bomb tests near Amchitka Island. His dedication and passion for environmental conservation led him to become the first Chairman of Greenpeace Foundation when the organization was established, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in the environmental movement.

Tamo Campos is a prominent figure in the snowboarding community, known for his skills on the slopes and his dedication to environmental activism. As the founder of the organization Beyond Boarding, he campaigns passionately for social and environmental causes. Drawing inspiration from his early experiences backpacking with his father, Campos has become a respected advocate for sustainability and conservation efforts. His work reflects a deep commitment to using his platform as a snowboarder to raise awareness and make a positive impact on the world around him.

Frank Wolf is a renowned Canadian adventurer, writer, filmmaker, and environmentalist known for his works documenting wilderness expeditions worldwide, particularly focusing on the Canadian North. He has achieved notable feats such as becoming the first person to canoe across Canada in a single season and cycling 2,000 km in winter on the Yukon River. Wolf's contributions have been recognized through accolades such as being named one of Canada's Top Ten Adventurers by Explore and One of Canada's Greatest 90 Explorers of All Time by Canadian Geographic. His professional portfolio includes books like Lines on a Map and films such as Wild Ones and The Hand of Franklin, which have aired on CBC's Documentary Channel in Canada.