Who is Greta Thunberg? Everything you need to know about the environmental activist

Who is Greta Thunberg? Everything you need to know about the environmental activist

Discover how this young Swedish campaigner has inspired a global movement – and why her message matters here in the UK countryside

Published: June 10, 2025 at 1:12 pm

From solo school strikes in Stockholm to speeches on the world stage, Greta Thunberg has become a defining voice in the fight against climate change.

Who is Greta Thunberg?

Greta Thunberg first made headlines in 2018 when, at just 15 years old, she began striking outside the Swedish parliament every Friday to demand stronger action on climate change. Her solitary protest quickly grew into a global youth movement, inspiring students across the world to take part in climate strikes.

Since then, Thunberg has addressed the United Nations, crossed the Atlantic in a zero-emissions yacht, and become a symbol of youth-led environmental activism. She was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year in 2019 and has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times.

Diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, Greta has described her neurodivergence as a “superpower” that helps her see the climate crisis with clarity and urgency. 

Greta Thunberg close-up
Greta Thunberg participates in a climate protest with "Reclaim The Future" outside of the Swedish parliamentin March 2024 in Stockholm, Sweden (credit: Getty Images)

Greta Thunberg on TV and in books

In 2021, BBC One aired Greta Thunberg: A Year to Change the World, a three-part documentary following her journey to witness the effects of climate change firsthand. One of the highlights was her meeting with Sir David Attenborough, a moment that brought together two generations of environmental advocates.

She released The Climate Book in 2022, a collection of essays from 100 scientists, writers and activists about how to combat the climate crisis.

Greta Thunberg's activism

She left school in 2023, ending her school climate strikes, but has continued her activism.

While climate change remains her central focus, Greta has also spoken out on other global issues, including conflicts in Ukraine, Palestine, Armenia and Western Sahara. Her activism continues to evolve, reflecting a broader concern for justice and sustainability.

Climate activists including Greta Thunberg march to protest against private jet flights
Climate activists including Greta Thunberg march to protest against private jet flights and the proposed expansion of Farnborough Airport in January 2024 in Farnborough (credit: Getty Images)

Who is Greta Thunberg’s family?

Greta's parents are Malena Ernman, an opera singer, and Svante Thunberg, an actor. She has a younger sister.

Where is she from?

Greta Thunberg was born in Stockholm, Sweden.

How old is Greta Thunberg?

Greta Thunberg was born on 3 January 2003.

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