The latest addition to the global Vogue editions, Vogue Scandinavia has unveiled its inaugural issue starring Greta Thunberg. The Swedish activist known for bringing the much-needed global attention to the climate crisis was chosen to front the issue for their shared vision of a sustainable future and love of nature. Photographed by Swedish artist duo Alexandrov Klum, Thunberg wears sustainable, recycled materials for the cover shoot, and some pieces custom made via deadstock from Swedish and Danish designers. The cover sees her wearing an upcycled trench coat, sitting beside an Icelandic horse Gandalf, in the forests just outside of Stockholm.
In her interview with the magazine, the 18-year-old speaks about the power her generation holds in making a difference. “If we look throughout history, the biggest [group of] people who have had the greatest impact have all been led by young people. That shows what power young people have so I see that as hopeful,” she says. Thunberg adds, “If we didn’t believe that we are able to make the changes, then we wouldn’t be doing this. We are the ones who have not given up, who still have hope, who still have optimism.”
The fashion industry is a huge contributor to the climate-and ecological emergency, not to mention its impact on the countless workers and communities who are being exploited around the world in order for some to enjoy fast fashion that many treat as disposables. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/pZirCE1uci
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) August 8, 2021
Since starting her activism in 2018, Thunberg has mobilised not just the youth, but millions of adults across the world to call for change in government policies and call on world leaders to address the climate crisis. By appearing on the cover, the three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee wants to raise awareness about the issue with a new audience. “If you are buying fast fashion then you are contributing to that industry and encouraging them to expand and encouraging them to continue their harmful process,” she tells Vogue Scandinavia. “Of course I understand that for some people fashion is a big part of how they want to express themselves and their identity.”
The debut issue of Vogue Scandinavia focuses on nature in a celebration of the stunning landscapes and natural environments across all Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. “The love and respect for nature and wildlife is something that unifies all five of the Nordic countries,” says the magazine’s editor-in-chief Martina Bonnier. With an aim to be the most sustainable fashion magazine on the planet, Vogue Scandinavia is created with renewable paper, and uses no plastics in its packaging.
Read Next: Greta Thunberg Pens a Passionate Letter on Why We Must Do More to Tackle the Climate Crisis