Jamaica Plain resident Carl Spector has been appointed Boston's Commissioner of the Environment Department -- and is in Paris for the U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP21) this week.
"Carl brings a tremendous amount of experience and dedication to further our work in preparing Boston for the effects of climate change and making sure we're leading by example," said Mayor Marty Walsh. "As world leaders meet in Paris this week to address global climate change, Boston is fortunate to have a pioneer like Carl representing the City."
Spector is joining other leaders from Boston and around the world this week in Paris for the U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP21). Boston is a C40 Cities Award finalist for its community engagement work for Greenovate Boston.
"I am honored by the opportunity that Mayor Walsh and Chief Blackmon have given me to continue the advancement of Boston's acclaimed programs in climate, energy, environmental protection, and historic preservation," said Spector via press release. "I look forward to working with all members of the Boston community in these vital areas."
Spector will lead Boston's efforts to "protect built and natural environments and oversee policies and programs on environmental issues affecting Boston," such as addressing climate change.
Spector has worked in the City's Environment Department for more than a decade, most recently as the Director of Climate and Environmental Planning. He led the development and implementation of Boston's continued climate mitigation and adaptation plans, starting with the its first climate action plan in 2007. He also spearheaded the Boston's efforts to establish the city's Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Ordinance (DERO).
Prior to working for the city his work experience includes employment at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Government Accountability Office (GAO).
Spector received his B.A. in Physics from Princeton University and his M.S. in Environmental Science for the UMass-Boston. He currently lives in Jamaica Plain with his wife and their son.