Good News of the Week: Celebrating the Positive Moments That Matter

The Goldman Environmental Prize recently announced its winners for 2023. This award, often called the “Green Nobel Prize,” recognizes activists who stand up to powerful corporations threatening our planet.

This year’s honorees include Batmunkh Luvsandash, who played a crucial role in establishing a vast protected area in Mongolia’s Dornogovi province. This region is now a strong defense against the country’s mining expansion.

Another noteworthy winner is Besjana Guri, along with Olsi Nika, who fought against a dam project threatening the Vjosa River in Albania. Thanks to their efforts, the river is now designated as a national park.

Other awardees include:

• Laurene Allen, who successfully demanded the closure of a toxic plastic plant in New England, USA.
• Mari Luz Canaquiri Murayari, who achieved a historic court ruling to protect Peru’s Marañón River.
• Semia Gharbi, who exposed and challenged a corrupt waste trafficking scheme between Italy and Tunisia.
• Carlos Mallo Molina, who helped stop the construction of a port endangering a marine protected area in the Canary Islands.

Jennifer Goldman Wallis, vice president of the Goldman Environmental Foundation, highlighted the significance of these activists: “In these challenging times, these seven individuals remind us of what can happen with determination, resilience, and hope.”

Activism is increasingly vital. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 68% of people believe protecting the environment should be a priority, reflecting a growing awareness of climate issues. This year’s winners exemplify the commitment and courage needed to safeguard our world.

For more on the incredible work these activists have done, you can explore their stories on the Goldman Environmental Prize website.

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