Wangari Maathai

You cannot protect the environment unless you empower people, you inform them, and you help them understand that these resources are their own, that they must protect them.

It's the little things citizens do. That's what will make the difference. My little thing is planting trees.

When we plant trees, we plant the seeds of peace and hope.

The generation that destroys the environment is never the generation that pays the price. That is the problem.

We are called to assist the Earth to heal her wounds and in the process heal our own – indeed, to embrace the whole of creation in all its diversity, beauty and wonder.

I don't know why I was so lucky. I don't know why I was chosen. But I know that I have a responsibility to use this platform to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.

We have a right to clean air, clean water, and healthy food. These are basic human rights.

The environment is everything, and if you don't take care of it, you don't have anything.

African women are very strong. They are the backbone of the family and the community.

The future of the planet depends on our ability to protect the natural environment.

You cannot enslave a mind that knows how to think.

We need to move from a culture of consumption to a culture of conservation.

My inspiration is the women in the rural areas who are struggling to survive.

The tree is a symbol of life, of hope, of peace, of sustainability.

We have to be the change we want to see in the world.

The problems we face today, whether they are environmental, social, or economic, are interconnected.

It's important to empower women because they are the ones who are most affected by environmental degradation.

We are all connected to the Earth, and we must protect it for future generations.

The environment is not just about trees; it's about justice, equity, and peace.

I believe that when we empower women, we empower the whole community.