In Memoriam: Phil Clapp

Those how know me well know that at heart I am a hero worshiper. Today I lost one of my heros, and the environmental movement lost a true friend.

Philip Clapp, a lifelong champion for environmental causes and an early, eloquent voice on global climate change, died early this morning. He was 54. We will miss his vision, insight, and heart.

In 1994, Phil was tapped by Josh Reichert, environmental director of Pew Charitable Trusts, to start "Environmental Strategies," which would "assist environmental organizations to conduct public education campaigns on priority national environmental issues."

Environmental Strategies became the National Environmental Trust, and Phil helmed the group for over 14 years as it grew into one of the nation's most influential green groups. (Last year NET merged with the Pew Charitable Trusts to form the Pew Environment Group, with Phil as deputy managing director).

Phil was not only as a committed environmentalist, but also a savvy political operative. Many consider him the environmental movement's best strategist. In statements issued today by friends and foes, Phil's praises are being sung. Fred Krupp, executive director of the Environmental Defense Fund, noted not only Clapp's "considerable political and strategic skills," but also "the intelligence and style" he brought to the environmental effort. Indeed, even his political enemies came to respect him. Said Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), "while we were often on opposing sides of the political arena I always appreciated his commitment to public policy and passion for the environment."

I sat in several meetings on climate change and other issues over the years where Phil was present. I did not know him, but I knew his work and his reputation. One of the things I liked most about him was his sense of humor and irreverent nature. I appreciated it greatly, particularly during interminable treaty talks in gray humorless halls in places like The Hague and Bonn and Montreal. He was as witty as he was fierce.

He will be missed.