Carl Spector appointed commissioner of the Environment Department

"Carl brings a tremendous amount of experience and dedication to further our work in preparing Boston for the effects of climate change and making sure we're leading by example," said Mayor Walsh. "As world leaders meet in Paris this week to address global climate change, Boston is fortunate to have a pioneer like Carl representing the City."

Spector will join other leaders from the City and around the globe this week in Paris for the U.N. Climate Change Conference (COP21), where Boston is a C40 Cities Award finalist for its community engagement work for Greenovate Boston.

"I am honored by the opportunity that Mayor Walsh and Chief Blackmon have given me to continue the advancement of Boston's acclaimed programs in climate, energy, environmental protection, and historic preservation," said Spector. "I look forward to working with all members of the Boston community in these vital areas."

Spector will serve in the Environment, Energy, and Open Space Cabinet under the guidance of Chief Austin Blackmon, and will lead the City's efforts to protect built and natural environments and oversee policies and programs on environmental issues affecting Boston.

"Carl has extensive leadership experience on climate action and environmental protection," said Chief Blackmon. "I'm confident that his continued commitment to the City will take us even further in addressing climate change."

Spector has served in the City's Environment Department for over a decade, most recently as the Director of Climate and Environmental Planning. During this time he led the development and implementation of the City's ongoing climate mitigation and adaptation plans, starting with the City's first climate action plan in 2007. Additionally, he spearheaded the City's efforts to establish Boston's Building Energy Reporting and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) and the Diesel Emissions Reduction Ordinance (DERO).

Prior to his time with the City, he worked in government and private industry on energy, environment, and other matters, including at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Government Accountability Office (GAO).

Spector received his B.A. in Physics from Princeton University and his M.S. in Environmental Science for the University of Massachusetts, Boston. He currently lives in Jamaica Plain with his wife Marilu, who is an artist, and their son Jonah.