The 100 Latinos, the power of climate action in times of misinformation. By Arturo Larena (director of EFEverde.com)

By Arturo Larena

Director of EFEverde.com

Climate action requires more SDG 17, more alliances, more cooperation, and more shared work networks. No country, institution, or individual can face the greatest environmental challenge of our time alone. In this sense, the "100 Latinos Most Committed to Climate Action" initiative, promoted by Sachamama, represents an excellent example of collaboration, visibility, and shared leadership.

Being included on this list again in 2025 is an honor that fills me with pride, but also a great responsibility in the final stretch of my career as a working environmental journalist. The list was released on October 24, the International Day for Combating Climate Change, a day that invites reflection and action. It also coincides with the eve of the first anniversary of the tragic DANA on October 29, 2024, which claimed the lives of 229 people, a painful reminder that the impacts of climate change are no longer a future threat, but a reality affecting our communities, economies, and ecosystems.

A list that inspires commitment and cooperation

Each year, this initiative recognizes 100 leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean who, through science, politics, journalism, art, and activism, work for a sustainable future and climate action. Having also participated in the 2019, 2020, and 2021 editions reinforces my conviction that communicating climate change is more necessary than ever: because reporting is also a way of taking action.

We are living in a decisive decade. The global average temperature rose 1.24°C above the pre-industrial era between 2015 and 2024, and last year the best estimate of this increase observed at the planet's surface was 1.52°C, according to an international team of 61 scientists from 17 countries. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warns of an 80% probability that the 1.5°C threshold will be temporarily exceeded before 2029.

Behind these figures are record-breaking heat waves, persistent droughts, devastating wildfires, and extreme weather events that devastate lives and territories. Climate disasters that are becoming increasingly intense and more frequent.

Disinformation, lies and denialism

But alongside the climate emergency, another silent threat is expanding: misinformation. Narratives that deny or minimize scientific evidence undermine social consensus and hinder political action. Science is discredited and outright lies are spread. In this context, rigorous, independent, and empathetic environmental journalism is an essential antidote. Communicating is not just about informing: it is also about inspiring, educating, and mobilizing.

That's why the list of the 100 Latinos most committed to climate action is also a living and dynamic list.

Each year, it is renewed thanks to nominations from more than 30 partner organizations and the review of an international jury that evaluates the impact and consistency of each project.

New names are being added, demonstrating that this selection represents only a small fraction of the many Latinas and Latinos who, from their communities, businesses, institutions, or social movements, work tirelessly for the planet.

Diversity and leadership in climate action

This edition features inspiring leaders such as Puerto Rican scientist Frances Colón, Brazilian minister Sônia Guajajara, Chilean activist Gonzalo Muñoz, actress and environmentalist Eva Longoria, and young Ecuadorian indigenous women Helena Gualinga and Nemonte Nenquimo, powerful voices in defense of the Amazon. They all represent the diversity of approaches and realities that converge in a common purpose: preserving life on Earth.

I am particularly pleased to share this distinction with other Spanish professionals included in the 2025 edition: Teresa Ribera Rodríguez, Miguel Á. Torres, Javier Peña , Daniel Carbonell Macaco, and Alejandro Agag. Each of them, from their respective fields—politics, business, communications, music, or climate innovation—contributes an essential element to this mosaic of Ibero-American leadership committed to sustainability.

Also worthy of special mention is Mexican cartoonist and EFEverde contributor Víctor Solís , included in this edition. With over 35 years of experience depicting climate change and the relationship between humans and nature, Solís celebrates his work this year with a book and a retrospective exhibition reviewing his career as one of Latin America's most prominent environmental communicators. His art has helped raise awareness, with humor and insight, among generations of readers about the ecological challenges of our time.

Likewise, it is inspiring to share the list with the Spanish-Venezuelan editor Jorge Neri, head of Cambio16 , who from journalism and business has defended a transformative vision around sustainability, climate justice and ethical leadership, pillars that he shares with the general director of Sachamama , Carlos Zegarra, and his commitment to making Latin climate action visible throughout the world.

In times of uncertainty, uncertainty, and polarization, climate action must be a space for unity, cooperation, and hope. There are no borders in the face of the environmental emergency. Communicating rigorously, promoting SDG 17 to unite support, as I initially suggested, and focusing on solutions is, today, one of the most powerful ways to act.

Because climate action is not just an option: it is an ethical and shared responsibility with future generations.

About @CDOverde

Green Opinion Makers #CDO is a collective blog coordinated by Arturo Larena , director of EFEverde

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