National Figures

In this collection you will find leaders who have shaped the environmental movement on a national scale. They have done so through offering influential ideas, conducting groundbreaking research, moving landmark legislation, and creating enduring organizations. In so doing they have helped how our nation and others understand and respond to environmental challenges.

But public achievements tell only part of the story. What are the deeper motivations that have guided these leaders throughout their lives? These stories invite us to look beyond accomplishments and discover the convictions, experiences, and values that have inspired some of the nation’s most influential environmental leaders. (alphabetical order)

Denis Hayes – Organizer of the First Earth Day

Denis was the principal organizer of the first Earth Day in 1970 and later expanded it to 180 countries, making it the largest secular holiday on earth.

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Jay Inslee – America’s Greenest Governor

During his three terms, he put fighting climate change and building a clean energy economy at the center of his agenda, helping turn Washington State into a model for other states and countries.

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David Korten – Ecological Civilization

David is a best selling author, lecturer, and former Harvard Business School professor who has advocated for an “ecological civilization” for over 30 years..

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Jason F. McLennan – Green Buildings

Jason is one of the most influential figures in sustainable architecture, the creator of the Living Building Challenge and a catalyst behind some of the greenest buildings on the planet.

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Lynne Twist – A “Proactivist”

Lynne is a visionary, fundraiser, author, speaker, and nonprofit leader. She co-founded Pachamama Alliance, which has helped the Achuar protect almost 2 million acres of Amazon rainforest.

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More stories from national figures coming soon!