Who are the 100 world-leading environmentalists, according to The Independent?

PRESS REVIEW – Monday, September 21: The Independent's climate 100 list for 2026 is out, featuring names like Pope Leo and Sir David Attenborough. Climate change is having an undeniable effect on animals across the world, some of which are seeking human help. And finally: are people's dating patterns shifting?

The Independent has published its 2026 list of the world’s leading environmentalists. It’s a list celebrating the “campaigners, change makers and innovators who are making a positive and significant difference to turn the tide on the climate crisis”. It includes names like Erin Brockovich, Pope Leo and Sir David Attenborough. 

Speaking of the climate crisis, The Times has an article called “Koala in search of bear necessities winds up in woman’s bedroom". A new study has recorded the growing numbers of wild animals entering human homes. That’s because they are seeking refuge due to climate change and habitat loss. Researchers hope that the findings will encourage more biodiversity-friendly home designs. 

Another heartwarming story from Florida. The Washington Post reports that a quiet morning at a marine research facility was interrupted by knocking on the door. The visitor was a pelican in need of help. The biologist said, “The pelican stood there patiently, as if waiting for help”, and a quick inspection revealed that the animal was injured. A fishing line was wrapped around the pelican’s right wing. And a hook was stuck in the wing. A marine researcher working there said she thought someone brought the bird and was instead shocked it came on its own to the lab – that's not usual behavior in wild birds. She said it was a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” […] “to have a bird knock at your door and ask for help”. And she did help and saved its life. 

Finally, new data shows a shift in how people approach dating. Cosmopolitan’s title reads “The slow burn is back and ghosting is on the rise, according to new dating data”. The numbers come from the Kinsey Institute – the data shows that more and more people are willing to give second chances. They even stay open-minded and continue dating someone they did not have an initial spark with. According to the data, 49 percent of people fell in love with someone they did not find attractive at first. So if it’s not about the spark or passion, then what are people looking for on a first date? Well, great conversation, shared interests, self-improvement over time and life goals. That all sounds very mature – but ghosting is also on the rise, so don’t get too excited! 

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