The Independent, a leading global news organisation committed to making change happen, today publishes its annual 2026 Climate 100 List, championing the world’s most visionary and impactful leaders, innovators, and activists fighting climate change and pushing for environmental justice.
New entrants this year include New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, environmental campaigner Erin Brockovich, International Rescue Committee (IRC) President and CEO David Miliband, and actor Benedict Cumberbatch, alongside campaigners, scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators driving change in communities around the world.
The IRC CEO will be delivering the keynote address at an event on 22 September in New York, marking the launch of this year’s Climate 100 List. Others recognised on the list include returning honourees activist Greta Thunberg and naturalist Sir David Attenborough. As in past years, the list also includes five honourees nominated by The Independent’s readers.
Sponsored by Octopus Energy, a global clean energy and technology business, the invitation-only Climate 100 event will bring together changemakers from across business, science, policy, and activism for a day of sharing stories and fostering constructive debate.
David Miliband, a former UK Foreign Secretary, is expected to address how the countries facing the world’s worst conflicts are increasingly the same ones facing the worst climate shocks — and that they receive the least funding to adapt to it. He leads the IRC’s humanitarian operations in more than 40 crisis-affected countries, where drought, flooding, and extreme heat increasingly compound conflict and force people from their homes.
Geordie Greig, Editor-in-Chief of The Independent, said: “The Climate 100 List represents a continuation of our four-decade-long commitment to shining a spotlight on the climate crisis. We are delighted to be marking its publication in New York, alongside honourees, partners, and guests.”
Zach Leonard, Executive Director, Foundation Development at The Independent, added: “With governments and business leaders arriving in New York for both Climate Week NYC and the United Nations General Assembly, the Climate 100 List is a timely reminder of the vital importance of real-world action. By celebrating the work of these individuals, we hope to inspire our global audience to join the fight against climate change.”
David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, said: “The world’s climate crisis is landing hardest on the people who did the least to create it. Drought, floods and heat are now as likely to drive someone from their home as a bullet. Any serious climate response has to start with them, not end with them.”
The Independent is reporting live from Climate Week NYC across its Climate Channel, multimedia features, expert commentary, and exclusive interviews with key players in the global climate conversation.
