As much as anything, my blog, Civil Notion, gives you an insight into who I am. The blog is about the politics of climate change in the US and around the world. The articles that you’ll find here cover a multitude of topics ranging from Mother Nature to human nature and all that might lie between, and even off to the side.
Nearly all of my professional experience is in the clean energy and climate communities. I first came to Washington before the US Department of Energy was even a gleam in anyone’s eye. I’ve represented private clients in Washington and elsewhere before government bodies.
I’ve counseled secretaries of energy and written and analyzed volumes of policy proposals on everything from the creation of the NREL, the nation’s renewable energy laboratory, to public/private partnerships. When hostile administrations or Congress threaten federal program budgets, I collaborate with allies to devise and implement political strategies to minimize the damage.
My experience allows me to offer readers a perspective not found in mainstream outlets. I’ve seen a lot in my time, and I can confidently tell you that sausage-making can’t hold a candle to lawmaking.
I sometimes think of myself as a puzzle master. Over a week, I do a fair amount of research and speak with many people. Beyond the specific information I might need for an article, I see and hear bits and bobs of things that, on their own, may not seem important or even make sense. However, together they create a pattern or trend.
In my world, context is everything.
