Alabama State Climatologist Speaks at Grassroots Rally for Sensible National Energy Plan

On May 15, 2001, Alabama state climatologist, Prof. John R. Christy, addressed more than 150 Alabama Citizens for a Sound Economy activists who gathered at the state Capitol to call for a national energy policy that is environmentally sensitive and economically sound. Prof. Christy discussed the impact of global warming and the present energy crisis on our economic prosperity.

Prof. Christy is Professor of Atmospheric Science and Director of the Earth System Science Center at the University of Alabama at Huntsville. Gov. Don Siegelman appointed him Alabama state climatologist in November 2000.

In 1991, Prof. Christy and NASA scientist Dr. Roy Spencer were awarded NASA’s Medal for Exceptional Scientific Achievement for developing a global temperature data set from microwave data observed from satellites beginning in 1979. In 1996, they were selected to receive a Special Award by the American Meteorological Society “for developing a global, precise record of earth’s temperature from operational polar-orbiting satellites, fundamentally advancing our ability to monitor climate.”

Prof. Christy has also served as a contributor (1992, 1994 and 1996) and lead author (2001) for the U.N. reports by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

“We were exceptionally fortunate to have Prof. Christy here with us at Alabama CSE Day,” said CSE vice president for state and federal campaigns Marty Reiser.

“His ability to take this complex issue – which unfortunately has been distorted by junk science – and make it understandable to the non-scientist is remarkable,” Reiser declared.

“Prof. Christy was able to explain to our citizen activists here in Alabama, in an easy to understand manner, the relationship between global warming policy, the present energy crisis, and the impact of both on our economic prosperity,” added Twinkle Andress, Alabama CSE state director. “Prof. Christy energized our grassroots activists to lobby for a sound energy policy. We’re genuinely grateful that Prof. Christy took the time to speak to our activists at Alabama CSE Day.”