Ellie Goulding was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) by Prince William at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to biodiversity and the climate. The 39-year-old singer beamed with pride as the honor was pinned to her white peplum blazer, marking a significant milestone in her environmental advocacy.
The global environmental ambassador for the United Nations, Ellie was celebrated in the New Year’s Honours list for her tireless activism. She wore a chic white suit with a brown detail around the hips and a netted hat to complete her look for the prestigious occasion.
Reflecting on the honor, Ellie took to Instagram to express her gratitude. “It is such a great honor to receive an MBE for services to biodiversity and climate. From the start, I have been guided by incredible women in this space. Last year, we really felt how much the climate and nature crises are intensifying, but we continue to be lifted by the incredible women leading the charge—scientists, activists, farmers, mothers, Indigenous leaders, and youth voices. I am lifted on the shoulders of giants. Extremely proud,” she wrote.
Ellie’s dedication to environmental causes has seen her work closely with global leaders, including speaking at the UN and engaging with former US Vice President Kamala Harris. She also joined Sir David Attenborough for the Our Planet series, contributing the song In This Together.
In addition to her activism, Ellie has been a champion of sustainability in fashion. In 2018, she called on the industry to embrace eco-friendly practices, and a year later, she spoke at the Illegal Wildlife Trade Conference in London. Her work has helped raise awareness about the importance of conservation, including collaborating with naturalists to create music that generates funding for environmental causes.
Ellie’s impressive music career includes multiple UK number-one albums, such as Halcyon (2012), Brightest Blue (2020), and Higher Than Heaven (2023). She has also had four number-one singles and collaborated with high-profile artists, including Tinie Tempah, Calvin Harris, and Major Lazer. Her 2020 cover of Joni Mitchell’s River even highlighted environmentalism with a zero-waste Christmas tree made from recycled objects.
Born Elena Jane Goulding in 1986, Ellie’s musical journey began at a young age, and she quickly became a standout talent in the UK music scene. She won the Critics’ Choice Brit Award at 23 and topped the BBC’s Sound of 2010 poll. Her debut album Lights was an instant success, and she has continued to dominate the charts throughout her career.
Ellie’s work extends far beyond music, with her passion for the environment and her active involvement in charitable initiatives. She is also a patron of The Marylebone Project, which provides services for homeless women.
Recently, Ellie welcomed her second child, a baby girl named Iris Edaline, with her boyfriend Beau Minniear. She also has a four-year-old son, Arthur, from her previous marriage to Caspar Jopling.
Through her music, activism, and tireless dedication to the planet, Ellie Goulding continues to inspire a global movement towards a more sustainable future.
