This weekend, people around the world will be celebrating Earth Day.
And with the issues of plastic consumption, climate change, and air pollution ever more pressing, Earth Day is a chance for everyone to reconsider how their decisions affect the world around us.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration on how to make better environmental choices then the photo-sharing app Instagram is a great place to start.
The platform is awash with people raising awareness of the importance of environmental activism.
If it’s sustainable fashion you’re after, there are over 2.8 million posts on Instagram exploring this.
And #plasticfree is one of the popular up-and-coming hashtags, with people sharing their tips on how to have a zero-waste lifestyle.
Here are the top environmental influencers to follow on Instagram this Earth Day.
1. Greta Thunberg (@gretathunberg)
Greta is the ultimate environmental campaigner and influencer. The 16-year-old is the brains behind the recent UK school climate strikes,
Back in September, she went on a three-week strike from school to urge the Swedish government to act on climate change, resorting to protesting because she was too young to vote in the general elections. Her actions have inspired other young people to follow suit across the world.
2. Immy Lucas @sustainably_vegan
Londoner Immy Lucas makes the low impact lifestyle look unbelievably good.
She uses her account to advocate for zero waste, environmentalism and veganism, offering tips on how to cut down on waste with things like making your own snacks or cosmetics.
3. Blue Ollis @blueollis
Whether it's inspirational yoga shots or details on how to re-use plastic, Blue’s Instagram is all about being an ethical vegan.
She also has her own e-Book on the vegan recipes you need in your life, whether you’re a strict follower of a vegan diet or just need some more vegetables in your life.
4. Madeleine Olivia @madeleineolivia
Based in Brighton, Madeleine’s grid is full of dreamy shots of her great hair and interesting recipes you should try.
She uses the platform to share insights into following a sustainable vegan and minimalist lifestyle.
5. Elizabeth Farrell @glacier996girl
Elizabeth is only 22 but that doesn’t stop her from using social media to raise awareness about the effects of climate change.
She recently held an exhibition at the V&A, translating the research of academics like Naomi Klein into photographs and installations about our earth.
6. Jen Brownlie @jen.brownlie
Scotland-based Jen uses Instagram to showcase how you can follow a sustainable fashion lifestyle and still have a great wardrobe.
Her grid is about focusing on slow fashion and how to integrate it into your wardrobe in a way which works for your lifestyle.
7. Tolmeia Gregory @tollydollyposh
Tolmeia has been running her ethical fashion blog for seven years, since the tender age of 11.
With her emphasis on showcasing sustainable collections by the likes of G-Star RAW, if you’re wanting to cultivate an ethical wardrobe, she is one to follow.
8. Andrea Sanders @bezerowastegirl
As the founder of Be Zero, a non-profit organisation that inspires people on zero waste, Andrea’s Instagram is proof she walks the walk, as well as talks the talk, on the waste-free lifestyle.
Get tips on re-use and recycle in your life.
9. James Whitlowdelano @jameswhitlowdelano
Photographer James is the founder of @everydayclimatechange, a collective of six photographers from all over the world who are documenting the real effects of climate change.
10. Manuela Brown @thegirlgonegreen
Based in the Philippines, Manuel is all about the zero waste, minimal lifestyle.
She uses Instagram to post motivational and wellness messages, alongside incredible pictures of nature. Be warned, it is slightly envy-inducing.
11. Bea Johnson @zerowastehome
The founder of the zero waste lifestyle movement, Bea is also a bestselling author of the book Zero Waste Home.
She shatters misconceptions associated with the zero waste lifestyle, showing the time and money savings that come with helping the planet.
