The Grist 50 is an annual list of leaders from across the U.S. who are working on fresh, real-world solutions to our planet’s biggest challenges. We call them Fixers. The list includes scientists, artists, policymakers, farmers, social justice advocates, storytellers, entrepreneurs, technologists, chefs, clean energy wonks — all kinds of people pointing the way toward a just, sustainable future.
Collectively, their work shows what a vibrant, diverse climate movement looks like, and how everyone has a place in it.
Who nominates people to the Grist 50 list? You do! Every year, we send out a call for nominations, gathering suggestions from experts, Grist allies, readers, and the public at large.
The Grist team reviews thousands of nominations from all over the U.S. to select the final list.
When we select the Grist 50, we look for:
| Vision | Members of the Grist 50 can see what a more just, sustainable future looks like, and they have a drive to make that vision a reality. |
| Solutions | Grist 50 honorees are problem-solvers, cooking up technologies, campaigns, community projects, legislation, art installations — you name it — that push the boundaries of what’s possible. |
| Impact | Grist 50 Fixers’ work has demonstrated direct, positive impact on the community level or at a broader scale. |
| Diversity | The Grist 50 list reflects the vibrant, inclusive sustainability movement that is taking root in the U.S. We actively seek out diversity of many kinds, including race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, geography, and discipline. |
| Originality | We’re looking for people doing something extraordinary — inventing something new, or meeting old challenges in creative ways. Grist 50 Fixers are emerging, in the sense that they’re not yet household names. They’re up-and-comers bringing bold new energy to climate solutions. |
Since 2016, we have selected hundreds of Fixers for the annual Grist 50 list. Some, like activist and author Catherine Coleman Flowers, Congressman Ted Lieu, and hip-hop artist Xiuhtezcatl, have gone on to become household names. Others have continued driving impact and change in their communities. As part of this growing network of Fixers, they’ve had the opportunity to connect with others in their field along with climate leaders who come from vastly different regions and expertise, and share their solutions at Fix live events.
Do you know someone who ought to be recognized as a member of the Grist 50? Is it you? Let us know! Make your case using this form.
