Prestigious annual award recognizes outstanding efforts to advance climate solutions
SAN DIEGO, CA – The Climate Action Reserve, North America’s premier carbon offset registry, presented the 2016 Mary D. Nichols Climate Action Champion Awards during the Navigating the American Carbon World conference. The annual awards recognize outstanding leadership and deep commitment to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. For their efforts in the “fight” against climate change, the exemplary recipients receive a special championship title belt. The awards are named in honor of Mary Nichols, Chair of the California Air Resources Board and Founding Chair of the California Climate Action Registry – the predecessor and legacy program of the Climate Action Reserve.
“The 2016 Climate Action Champions are true heroes for our planet. They have dedicated their lives to championing climate solutions, and worked unwaveringly over decades to build a clean energy future, advance air quality, and build a healthier and sustainable future,” said Linda Adams, Chair of the Climate Action Reserve Board of Directors.
The 2016 champions are:
Michael Gibbs – Michael Gibbs serves as Assistant Executive Officer at the California Air Resources Board. As Assistant Executive Officer, and previously at the California Environmental Protection Agency, Mr. Gibbs has been a leading contributor to the development and implementation of the state’s cap-and-trade program. His more than 30 years of experience have also included evaluating risks of sea level rise, developing and running programs to reduce methane emissions, supporting the development of the Montreal Protocol, contributing to the IPCC emissions inventory guidelines, and designing energy efficiency programs.
“I am honored to receive this award,” said Mr. Gibbs. “It is my privilege to be part of a team of dedicated professionals, in California and around the world, working to reduce the risk of climate change.”
Gary Gero – Gary Gero currently serves as a member of the Advisory Board of Directors for the Climate Action Reserve after retiring from his role as President in January 2016. During his nine years of leadership, Mr. Gero grew the Reserve into the leading offset project registry in North America, informed the development of California’s cap-and-trade program, and strengthened the environmental integrity and financial value of the North American carbon market. Prior to joining the Reserve, Mr. Gero managed environmental programs at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and the City of Los Angeles.
“I am so proud for the recognition and accept this award on behalf of all the great people with whom I have worked in the fight against global climate change,” said Mr. Gero. “I am especially honored to have an award named for Mary Nichols, whose environmental leadership is a beacon to us all.”