January 5, 2026
The new year is a chance to reflect, take stock, and set a new tone for how we might take care of our planet.
To find new inspiration and clarity, we’re turning to Goldman Environmental Prize winners, environmental champions leading change across the globe. In this blog post, they share their hopes and advice for building a more sustainable future in 2026 and beyond.
“In 2026, I encourage everyone to remember that real change begins with courage and consistency. Whether you are protecting a river, planting a tree, or simply raising your voice for what matters, you are part of a larger, powerful movement. Don’t underestimate the impact of small actions; they often ripple outward in ways we can’t immediately see.”
—Olsi Nika, 2025 Goldman Prize winner from Albania
“We must remember that there is nothing above our health. And our health is entirely dependent on the health of our ecosystems. It’s critical to keep our ecosystems healthy from both visible and invisible pollution.”
—Semia Gharbi, 2025 Goldman Prize winner from Tunisia
“This year, we all need to remember that nature is constantly speaking to us—through its beauty, its resilience, and its warnings. Our task is to listen, to reconnect, and to respond with kindness and courage. Even the smallest actions, when done with passion and persistence, can create powerful waves of change.”
—Besjana Guri, 2025 Goldman Prize winner from Albania
“Now, more than ever, our voices must be used to reconnect others to the immensity of our natural world and instill the sense of wonder that all people once had. By working relationally, we will find the connections that we all need to protect and preserve the only planet we all call our home.”
—Laurene Allen, 2025 Goldman Prize winner from the United States
“Hope is the only way forward. We must work together and with love. There is still so much left to save—it is our responsibility to protect nature and fight for the world we want to leave behind.”
—Carlos Mallo Molina, 2025 Goldman Prize winner from the Canary Islands
