Ellie Goulding has recently been honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her role as a global environmental ambassador for the United Nations. Born on December 30, Ellie, known for her chart-topping hits, got married at York Minster in 2021.
With over 15 years in the music scene, she’s earned several accolades, including a musician of the year award from Harper’s Bazaar and multiple Grammy nominations. One notable chart-topper is her cover of Joni Mitchell’s “River,” released in early 2020, which features a powerful music video focused on environmentalism.
In the video, a unique Christmas tree made from beach litter and recycled items is created and donated to a school in north London. Ellie’s activism goes beyond music. She has worked hard to raise awareness for environmental and women’s issues. In 2013, she participated in the Chime For Change concert, a project aimed at empowering women in education and health, backed by notable figures like Beyoncé and Salma Hayek.
She also supports The Marylebone Project, offering essential services to homeless women, and is an ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Ellie became the UN Environment Programme’s global goodwill ambassador in 2017, a role that elevated her commitment to sustainability.
In 2018, she urged the fashion industry to adopt sustainable practices while accepting an Eco Award at a major event. A month later, she addressed global leaders at the Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference in London, advocating for wildlife protection.
In 2019, she collaborated with naturalist Sir David Attenborough for “Our Planet,” lending her voice to the soundtrack for an initiative aimed at raising awareness about nature conservation. The following year, a groundbreaking project recognized nature sounds as official music, merging art with environmental awareness. Ellie’s remix of “Brightest Blue” featured sounds from Colombia’s rainforests, generating conservation funding through streaming royalties.
Ellie’s commitment to these causes resonates widely with her fans. A 2022 survey revealed that about 70% of her followers appreciate her activism, and many are inspired to take action themselves. Through her platform, she’s not only changing the music landscape but also fostering a community focused on making the world a better place.
Ellie Goulding’s journey shows how artists can make meaningful contributions beyond their craft. In today’s world, where attention to climate issues is more crucial than ever, her efforts stand out as a shining example of the potential for change through influence.
For more on Ellie’s environmental initiatives, you can check the [UN Environment Programme](https://www.unep.org) and learn about how art and activism converge.
