On New Year’s Eve, 2020, Emma Hoskins made a resolution to visit every National Park in the United States before the age of 30 – a decision that would change the course of her life. This personal challenge, fueled by curiosity and a profound love of nature, soon became a full-blown adventure, one that has now seen Emma explore 26 new parks, live in eight different places, and hike countless trails. By 2021, Emma’s journey took on a new dimension as she managed to combine her professional life with her travels. Traversing the country, she shared her experiences through captivating stories and photography. Her photos are not only visually stunning but also reflect a deep connection with nature, conveying the importance of embracing environmental stewardship. By inviting her audience to join her travels, she encourages them to embark on their own adventures, explore their surroundings, and engage in meaningful environmental action.
Emma’s connection to the environment extends far beyond her travels. She is currently pursuing an MS in Outdoor Recreation Economy at the University of Colorado Boulder, focusing on how outdoor activities contribute to community well-being, conservation, and economic development. Her role as a Climate and Resilience Fellow at the United States' National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has further solidified her expertise. Through her research, Emma has documented the impacts of climate change on national parks, supported legislative efforts, and advocated for the protection of these precious landscapes.
Now, she is joining UNESCO Green Citizens as an influencer. Her dedication to the outdoors is as much a personal pursuit as it is a mission to inspire and educate, resonating with UNESCO’s goal to promote Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Through its ESD for 2030 programme, UNESCO aims to empower learners with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address urgent environmental, social, and economic challenges, thereby enabling communities to better protect and sustain the planet. Leveraging her platform, Emma aims to encourage her community to protect the natural world by learning from or getting involved in the 150 local projects highlighted by UNESCO Green Citizens.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, Emma’s story serves as a reminder that exploration and conservation go hand in hand. With her new role as a UNESCO Green Citizens influencer, Emma will help to inspire a global audience to cherish and protect our planet for future generations.
What is UNESCO Green Citizens?
This initiative connects local citizen solutions, UNESCO's scientific expertise, and the willingness of young people to engage in the fight against climate change. Learn more about these 150 innovative and duplicable projects, led by citizens, below.