ClimateVoices Featuring Caroline Spears

In this issue I’m pleased to be talking to Caroline Spears, Executive Director of Climate Cabinet (Climate Cabinet Action and Climate Cabinet Education), former member of the ClimateVoice Advisory Board, and named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2024 as well as a Grist 50 “Fixer” in 2021.

What are the key state policy trends to watch in 2024, and which states are most likely to showcase climate policy leadership?

In 2024, I think we’ll see accelerated leadership in a few key states like Minnesota. A lot of the federal climate investments will start to be implemented and states that have already been leading like CO, MN, NY, etc. will be looking at ways to really maximize those federal dollars for clean energy infrastructure, energy efficiency, and electric appliances. 

Minnesota and Colorado have already passed supplemental funding to help further close affordability gaps – between federal, state, and utility incentives and rebates, some low-income Coloradans are eligible for up to $22,000 toward an electric vehicle.

I’m also looking at “next mover” states like Arizona and Pennsylvania as future leaders on climate.

Climate Cabinet was very active in Michigan last year as the state passed a 100% Clean Energy legislation. What lessons did you learn from that victory that are most relevant to this year? 

Planning for pro-climate majorities is just as important as the work it takes to flip to those majorities. There are a wide variety of stakeholders working for climate justice and we have to be ready to work together to accomplish bold policies like 100% clean energy and Clean Cars.

What would be your top messages to activate employees on climate policy – your call to action for what they can urge their companies to do to accelerate progress on bold climate policy?

Employees are also voters and while advocacy for more sustainable, climate-friendly practices at the corporate level can help, it's policy that's going to solve this crisis and deliver a just and equitable clean energy transition. Many companies talk a big game on climate – but their lobbying dollars and trade association memberships actually slow climate policy down. We need employees to be climate voters and climate candidate volunteers so we can elect the pro-climate city council members, mayors, legislators, and utility regulators who have the power to do the climate work we need at scale.

In Big Tech, they call me a “shit stirrer” – and I loved that nickname. What’s your moniker?

No idea! I’m excited for 2024, and the future climate leadership we’ll see across the country. Let’s do it! 

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The opinions and views expressed in this interview are solely those of the individual(s) being interviewed. They may not reflect the views, policies, or positions of ClimateVoice, the employer(s) of the individual(s) being interviewed, nor of any other organizations with which the individual(s) being interviewed are affiliated. This interview is intended for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as an endorsement or official statement on behalf of such employer(s) or organization(s).