BlueGreen Alliance Leader Recognized today by White House for Demonstrating Ways that Corporate Environmental Leadership Makes Sense for Businesses and Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 12, 2012) Jim Clark, president of IUE-CWA, the Industrial Division of the Communications Workers of America, was recognized today in a White House ceremony as a Champion of Change, demonstrating ways that corporate environmental leadership makes sense for both business and American communities. The BlueGreen Alliance applauds President Clark for his leadership on this issue and for moving this important dialogue forward.

“President Clark has long been on the front lines advocating for higher environmentally conscious business standards,” said David Foster, Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance, of which the Communications Workers of America is a member. “He has worked hard to bring key partners together on today’s important economic and environmental imperatives, including improving industrial efficiency and greening the manufacturing process, as well as playing an important role in crafting an international climate treaty.

“This is a much-deserved recognition for a leader in the labor movement whose vision is driving the creation of good jobs that also protect the environment,” continued Foster.

According to the White House, the Champions of Change program was created as a part of President Obama’s “Winning the Future” initiative, each week highlighting a different sector and Champions recognized for their efforts to serve and strengthen their communities.

IUE-CWA represents 150,000 active and retired men and women united collectively to seek dignity on the job and a secure future for themselves, our children and all future generations. Clark has been president since 2005, and is a member of the Executive Board of the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council. He advocated a Green Production Module to teach industrial workers about environmental practices and regulation that launched in the fall of 2011. It is the only nationally certified and portable green-tech credential.

Within IUE-CWA, Clark has led the effort to conduct energy efficiency “treasure hunts.” Working with the Environmental Defense Fund, the project increases awareness of energy saving opportunities in day-to-day operations, harnessing the knowledge and experience of workers to achieve those energy savings.