Evgeniya Chirikova is a notable Russian environmental activist opposing the construction of a motorway through Khimki Forest. Her activism during the 2011–2013 Russian protests sparked nationwide interest in political reform. Based in Estonia, Chirikova’s efforts led the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the European Investment Bank to reject the project. She’s received awards like the Woman of Courage Award in 2011 and the Goldman Environmental Prize in 2012. Foreign Policy named her one of its 2012 Top 100 Global Thinkers.
