Meet Robert M. White

---

RRobert M. White was a pioneer in atmospheric science. He was the first to lead the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and warned of climate change long before it was widely recognized. He helped construct a sophisticated satellite and computer network that fundamentally changed how people observe the atmosphere, leading to major improvements in early warnings for floods, tornadoes and hurricanes. He also championed marine conservation and helped establish some of the first government marine sanctuaries.  

Robert M. White's contributions spanned several areas of environmental science and policy. Here are some of his greatest contributions: 

Dr. White appointed director of the United States Weather Bureau. 

White was instrumental in the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which has been a critical agency for protecting the environment and human health in the United States.  

White was a key figure in developing the field of atmospheric sciences, particularly with regards to the study of weather patterns and climate change. 

White played a major role in promoting international cooperation on environmental issues. He served as the U.S. representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and was involved in negotiations that led to several key international agreements, including the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

Award of the Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement.