Jessica Lane crowned winner of the 2024 Miss Earth pageant

The winner of this year's Miss Earth pageant, which has been held since 2001 to draw attention to environmental protection, wildlife conservation, and humanitarian issues, has been announced.

Australia's Jessica Lane outperformed competitors from 75 countries at the pageant held in Manila to take first place.

The 22-year-old Lane, who was born in Melbourne and is a university student in Queensland's Sunshine Coast region, made history as the first Australian to win the Miss Earth crown.

In a statement following the pageant, Jessica Lane emphasized her desire to draw attention to environmental and climate issues. Lane stated, "I want to be the voice for Mother Nature. I am truly here to advocate for the environment."

Furthermore, noting that beauty pageants are not just spaces where women can share their experiences, Lane said, "These pageants provide an opportunity for women to raise their voices and create a platform for change."