16-year-old climate activist Greta Thunberg nominated for Nobel Peace Prize

She could potentially become the youngest recipient ever.
16-year-old climate activist Greta Thunberg nominated for Nobel Peace Prize
Greta Thunberg has demanded Norway do more to respond to climate change. Credit: Adam Berry / Getty Images

Whoever thinks young people can't change the world is wrong. For proof, just look at 16-year-old climate change activist Greta Thunberg.

Because of her efforts to combat climate change and save the planet -- and inspire young people around the world to do the same -- the Swedish teen has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize by three Norwegian lawmakers. Should she win, she would become the youngest Nobel Peace Prize recipient, as BBC News points out. Education activist Malala Yousafzai won the prize at 17 years old.

“We have nominated Greta because the climate threat may be one of the most important causes of war and conflict,” Norwegian parliamentary representative Freddy Andre Oevstegaard told local tabloid VG.

“The massive movement Greta has set in motion is a very important peace contribution,” he said.

In August 2018, at 15 years old, Thunberg captured the attention of mainstream media when she skipped school and sat on the steps of the Swedish parliament building for three weeks, demanding the government do more to address climate change. Since September, she's done the same every Friday, according to the website FridaysForFuture.

Now, the young trailblazer is calling on students from around the world to follow her lead and participate in a global school strike on March 15.

As history shows, youth activists know how to make their voices heard.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
'House of the Dragon's Steve Toussaint breaks down Corlys' quest for peace at Tumbleton
Steve Toussaint in "House of the Dragon."

Lily Phillips, other OnlyFans creators spread the word about climate change
lily phillips, a blonde white woman, on a red carpet

'A Statement' review: Star-studded climate change drama is more than just hot air
Amy Ryan, Dylan Baker, Paul Giamatti, Noah Robbins, and Zach Woods in "A Statement."

'Late Fame' review: Willem Dafoe and Greta Lee mesmerize in tale of New York City, art, and identity
Willem Dafoe and Greta Lee star in "Late Fame."

HeyPolo gives parents peace of mind without sacrificing privacy — sign up for under $1
By Phil Clark
HeyPolo Family Safety App

More in Science
Welcome home: Apple unveils special October event
Apple welcome home event

The 17 best Prime Day tech deals still live after the sale: Last chance deals on MacBooks, TVs, headphones, and more
earbuds, tv, headphones, smart watch, and camera on prime day themed background



Meta brings Muse to iPad with new tools for small businesses
A smiling, cream-colored Muse character 'Jolly' raises its arms beneath the word “iPad” on a dark stage surrounded by lights.

Trending on Mashable
Wordle today: Answer, hints for October 9, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Oct. 9, 2026
NYT Connections logo.

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 9, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for October 8, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

'Avatar: Seven Havens' review: The Avatar apocalypse is a bold, brilliant addition to the franchise
Pavi and her monkey cat Geet in "Avatar: Seven Havens."