Drawing Inspiration from Environmentalists who have Gone Before Us

As we continue to hope for the birth of a new era of environmental responsibility, we can draw inspiration from those who have gone before us and done so much to move us forward. Here are the abbreviated biographies of six environmentalists who invested their lives into the noblest of noble causes.

Judy Bonds

The anti-mountaintop removal mining activist, Judy Bonds, died in 2011 at the age of 58. Judy was an engaging speaker who inspired many people to get involved with efforts to protect mountains from mining. She was a powerful public speaker who had an awe inspiring capacity to rally people around the cause. One of her greatest accomplishments involved a 2010 march in which thousands protested in front of the White House for “Appalachia Rising.”

A Parting Letter from Energy Secretary Steven Chu

In a February 1, 2013 letter to Energy Department employees, (see below) Energy Secretary Steven Chu highlighted the tremendous progress of the last four years, and announced his decision to not serve a second term as Secretary.  In addition to reviewing his agency's achievements Chu squarely took aim at critics of the administration's renewable energy investments. 

The fossil fuel industry and their Republican minions attacked Chu for his support of renewable energy. Their attacks focused specifically on the failure of Solydra, even though a year long investigation revealed no evidence of wrong doing. Overall  the Obama administration's investments in clean energy have been very successful with a failure rate of less than 1 percent. 

Despite the witch-hunt, Chu's accomplishments are many and the villainous intent of those arrayed against him should be obvious to all. 

Video - Steven Chu and Bill Gates Discuss America's Energy Future

In this February 2012 video Bill Gates and Energy Secretary Steven Chu discuss how America can meet and prosper from 21st century global energy challenges. Moderated by John Podesta. Recorded at the ARPA-E.

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