Derek Walker
Vice President, Global Energy Transition
Description
Derek Walker is the Vice President for Global Energy Transition at Environmental Defense Fund, where he leads the organization’s strategy to rapidly and equitably deploy clean energy in key regions. Most recently, Derek served as Vice President for the U.S. Region, where he oversaw a portfolio of U.S. climate policy initiatives. In 15 years at EDF, Derek has also served as the organization’s Chief of Staff and led climate and clean energy work at the global, national, and state level, including several years directing the organization’s work to shape and support implementation of California’s Global Warming Solutions Act. Derek was the long-time chair of EDF’s Diversity Committee, helping EDF create and implement its first-ever diversity strategic plan.
He currently serves as a Steering Committee member of the Bluegreen Alliance, a board member of the Institute for Sustainable Communities and a member of the Early Years Climate Action Task Force. He previously served as a member of the University of California President’s Global Climate Leadership Council. Derek is also an Adjunct Professor of International Climate Change Law at Vermont Law School.
Background
Prior to joining EDF, Derek was Executive Director of the Maryland Democratic Party and Senior Vice President of the Hawthorn Group, a public affairs firm.
Education:
He received a B.A. in English from the College of William and Mary in Virginia and spent a year studying at University College, Oxford.
Latest pieces
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IRA across the USA: 5 communities winning clean energy manufacturing jobs
Climate 411, August 16, 2023 -
How our clean energy laws can support a fair transition for workers and communities
Climate 411 Blog, May 1, 2023 -
Biden’s American Jobs Plan is smart climate policy. Here’s why.
EDF Voices, May 6, 2021 -
These key policies in Biden’s infrastructure plan can deliver big wins on jobs and climate
Climate 411 Blog, April 15, 2021 -
These key policies in Biden’s infrastructure plan can deliver big wins on jobs and climate
EDF Blog, April 1, 2021 -
Creating opportunity for fossil fuel workers and communities: Lessons for a fair energy transition
Climate 411 Blog, March 25, 2021 -
Doubling Down on Carbon Pricing
Source, April 21, 2016 -
EDF California Letter Supporting AB 32 Scoping Plan
Source, December 5, 2008
Press materials
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National Climate Assessment Shows Toll of Climate Change on Every Region of U.S.
November 14, 2023 -
Biden-Harris Administration Actions to Cut Pollution from Industry Will Boost Innovation, Jobs and Equity
February 15, 2022 -
Biden Administration Takes Promising Step Toward Solutions for Transitioning Fossil Fuel Communities
April 23, 2021 -
EDF lanza la campaña "Energizamos a América"
November 29, 2020 -
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards Commits to Net Zero Emissions by 2050
August 19, 2020 -
How Federal Economic Development Can Help Drive a Fair Transition in Fossil Fuel Communities
August 11, 2020 -
New Poll as Isaias Lands: In Time of COVID, Two-Thirds of Americans Want Climate Action
August 4, 2020 -
In Attacking California, Trump Administration Tries Again to Dismantle Clean Air and Climate Protections
October 23, 2019