Jerome Ringo was more than just a man; he was a force of nature. His journey from the petrochemical industry to environmental activism is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Jerome’s childhood playgrounds were the bayous and marshes that defined the state’s natural beauty.
As he grew up surrounded by Louisiana’s stunning landscapes, Jerome developed a deep love and respect for nature. However, it wasn’t long before he began to witness the alarming effects of climate change on his beloved home state. The gradual disappearance of wetlands along the coastline and the increasing frequency of devastating hurricanes left an indelible mark on his consciousness.
Hurricane Laura in 2020 and Hurricane Ida in 2021, both wreaking havoc on Louisiana with unprecedented ferocity, reinforced Jerome’s belief that climate change was the most pressing issue of our time. In his own words to Mother Jones magazine in 2005, he emphasized, “The single greatest issue for me as an environmentalist is climate change.”
Despite spending twenty years working in Louisiana’s petrochemical industry starting from 1975—a period when oil, gas, and petrochemicals dominated the state’s economy—Jerome Ringo never lost sight of his environmental convictions. He recognized the need for a shift towards sustainability and accountability within industries that had long been associated with environmental degradation.
In 2006, Jerome made history by becoming the first Black chairman of a major conservation organization—the National Wildlife Federation. His leadership not only broke barriers but also opened doors for greater diversity and inclusivity within the environmental movement. He envisioned a future where environmental activism “looked more like America,” reflecting a tapestry of voices and perspectives united by a common goal: preserving our planet for future generations.
Jerome Ringo’s legacy extends far beyond his passing at age 70 due to a brain aneurysm in New Orleans. His life serves as a testament to the power of individual action in driving systemic change. Through his tireless advocacy for environmental justice, he inspired countless others to stand up for what they believe in and fight for a sustainable world.
“The wildlife, climate and environmental justice crises are interrelated…”
“The single greatest issue for me as an environmentalist is climate change.”
Expert Insights:
Reflecting on Jerome Ringo’s impactful journey from industry professional to renowned environmental advocate sheds light on the transformative power one individual can have on shaping collective awareness around critical issues such as climate change and ecological preservation.
Through his pioneering efforts within conservation organizations like the National Wildlife Federation,
Jerome challenged existing norms while championing diversity as a cornerstone for building resilient
environmental movements capable of fostering lasting change.
His vision continues to resonate with current activists striving to create inclusive spaces where various voices converge towards shared sustainability goals.
