Leonardo DiCaprio
About as green as they come
While admittedly in the past he’s been blasted by the New York Post’s gossipy Page Six for flying private jets, Leo seems to be honestly trying to make up for his wasteful ways by tirelessly working - narrating short environmental films Global Warning and Water Planet, presented on his eco-activist website (going strong since 2000); coproducing and writing, as well as narrating the documentary 11th Hour about the human impact on our planet; making a feature film about conflict diamonds, Blood Diamond; and hopefully even an upcoming reality show (we’re crossing our fingers that it will erase the memories of shows about trading wives and plastic surgery from our minds).
He’s known as one most outspoken green celebrities in Hollywood and most often backs it up in his day-to-day life. On LeonardoDiCaprio.org he lists important issues like global warming, water, biodiversity, sustainability and the Bush record. Clicking on each brings you to an overview of the issue, including resource links and personal solutions. You can find out what Leo’s reading, what sites he visits and what causes he’s rooting for. It almost makes us feel like we’re stalking him.
He’s one of a gang of green celebs, like Ed Begley Jr. and the Barenaked Ladies, who are constantly snapped driving their hybrid cars to events. His car of choice, the Prius, gets him around 60 miles to the gallon. He’s even promoted it in a Japanese commercial - thankfully it’s a bit less lame than the ads some other celebrities have done (think the Governator).
DiCaprio is involved in a slew of campaigns, from GAP’s (Product) RED, which contributes half its profits to the Global Fund to help women and children affected by HIV / AIDS in Africa, to the Virtual March to Stop Global Warming. He’s been on the board of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Global Green USA since 2004.
And last but not least is the recognition he’s received, including an environmental leadership award from Global Green and the invitation to chair Earth Day 2000. All-in-all, Leo’s a very eco-conscious guy. In fact, he and a few others practically built the green bandwagon that celebrities are now tripping over each other for a chance to hop on.
