Greenpeace’s Bold Actions Drive Environmental Changes in 2025

Greenpeace supporters have demonstrated remarkable resolve and commitment in the first half of 2025, achieving significant environmental victories that impact oceans, wildlife, and communities worldwide. Despite ongoing efforts by powerful polluters to undermine environmental initiatives, the collective actions of activists and volunteers are fostering substantial change.

Protecting Pollinators and Oceans

The year commenced with a major triumph for bees, as over 1.6 million individuals rallied for a ban on harmful neonicotinoid pesticides. These pesticides had been temporarily authorized for emergency use from 2021 to 2024, but the overwhelming support for the petition compelled the UK government to enforce a total ban in 2025. This victory signifies a critical step in protecting essential pollinators.

In January, a Scottish court ruled that the proposed drilling plans for the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil and gas fields in the North Sea were illegal. This landmark decision, confirmed after Greenpeace’s persistent legal efforts, will prevent further fossil fuel extraction, reinforcing the importance of maintaining fossil fuels underground to mitigate climate change.

Exposing Environmental Violations

March brought attention to the disturbing activities of supertrawlers in UK waters. Investigations by Greenpeace revealed that 28 supertrawlers, each measuring over 100 meters, had spent nearly 37,000 hours fishing in protected areas since 2020. The findings prompted significant media coverage and led to government commitments to ban destructive fishing practices in 41 Marine Protected Areas by June.

In April, activists made a bold statement outside the US embassy in London by dyeing the pond red to protest the sale of arms to Israel. This action drew attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting the responsibility of nations in global conflicts.

The Global Ocean Treaty also made strides in April, with 50 countries ratifying the treaty into their national laws. This landmark achievement, two years after its initial agreement, is a pivotal step toward making the treaty legally binding worldwide. Nonetheless, the UK has been criticized for its slow progress, prompting further calls for action from Greenpeace supporters.

Raising Awareness and Promoting Change

In June, investigative reports from Greenpeace’s journalism unit, Unearthed, uncovered the irresponsible disposal of clothing by major retailers, including Next and M&S, into protected wetlands in Ghana. This exposé not only gained national media attention but also prompted retailers to acknowledge the need for improved practices to protect local communities and wildlife.

Additionally, Unearthed revealed that water companies are facing a potential crisis regarding sewage disposal due to stricter pollution regulations. This situation has serious implications for environmental health and was highlighted in parliamentary discussions.

As concerns about climate change grow among younger generations, Greenpeace collaborated with an eco-anxiety expert to produce a guide aimed at helping parents discuss climate issues with children. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of environmental advocates.

The first half of 2025 has also been marked by powerful visuals capturing the ongoing environmental struggles. From the rescue of nine sharks by the Rainbow Warrior crew in the Pacific to protests highlighting the impact of climate disasters, these moments underscore the urgency of the climate crisis.

The efforts of Greenpeace supporters are vital in combating environmental degradation. As the movement gears up for the latter half of 2025, the call to action grows stronger. The path to a sustainable future remains fraught with challenges, but collective efforts continue to drive change and inspire hope for a healthier planet.