Six women from across the world win the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize, marking a historic first and spotlighting grassroots leadership in tackling climate and environmental challenges globally.
Six environmental activists from around the world are set to receive the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize 2026, widely known as the “Green Nobel Prize,” in recognition of their outstanding grassroots contributions to environmental protection and climate action.
In a historic first since the award’s inception in 1989, all six laureates are women, highlighting the growing and central role of women in global environmental leadership.
The 2026 winners are Iroro Tanshi from Nigeria, Borim Kim from South Korea, Sarah Finch from the United Kingdom, Theonila Roka Matbob from Papua New Guinea, Alannah Acaq Hurley from the United States and Yuvelis Morales Blanco from Colombia.
Each of the awardees has led impactful campaigns in their respective regions. Their work ranges from protecting endangered species and preventing wildfires to securing landmark legal victories on climate targets, halting oil drilling projects, holding mining corporations accountable, blocking large-scale mining developments and resisting the expansion of fracking.
The Goldman Environmental Prize recognises activists from six inhabited continental regions each year, honouring individuals who take significant risks to protect the environment and their communities. Winners are selected by an international jury based on confidential nominations submitted by a global network of environmental organisations and individuals.
John Goldman, vice president of the Goldman Environmental Foundation, said the 2026 cohort reflects the strength and leadership of grassroots environmental defenders worldwide. He noted that despite growing global challenges, individuals at the community level continue to drive meaningful change.
The award ceremony will take place on April 20 in San Francisco, United States and will be livestreamed globally. The event will be hosted by Telemundo anchor Vanessa Hauc and feature a musical performance by Caminos Flamencos.
As climate and environmental crises intensify globally, the recognition of these six women underscores the importance of community-led action and reinforces the role of grassroots leadership in shaping a more sustainable future.
