From the air we breathe to the water we drink, the majority of Ohio’s most pressing environmental concerns are impacted by climate change. Hotter, wetter, and more extreme weather caused by climate change threatens public health, harms our natural ecosystems, and strains the infrastructure and industries Ohio residents rely on. As the dangerous impacts grow, communities that have been systematically left out will continue to suffer the most.
In order to address the climate crisis, we cannot shy away from bold action. That is why the OEC has catalyzed efforts to fight climate change and environmental injustice in all facets of our work.
Climate Campaigns
Federal Climate Investments
Unprecedented investments are creating a healthier environment, stronger economy, and more resilient climate future.
Learn MoreClimate Change Impacts on Ohio
Climate change impacts are here, but so are the solutions.
Learn MoreClimate Team
Peter Bucher
Chief of Staff
As Chief of Staff with the OEC and OEC Action Fund, Pete oversees local, state, and federal advocacy strategies to secure a healthy air, land, water, and democracy for all who call Ohio home. This entails policy development and then public and decision-maker education to improve or implement laws across the state. Pete is from Central Ohio and he has a B.S. in Environmental Policy from the Ohio State University with a focus on water quality. Prior to joining the OEC Pete served as a Legislative Aide in the Ohio House of Representatives and as a consultant for various agricultural associations, labor coalitions and political campaigns. Pete lives in Worthington, OH and he’s currently serving in his second term on Worthington City Council and on the board of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA).
Emily Bacha
Vice President of Public Affairs
As Vice President of Public Affairs for the OEC, Emily Bacha leads the organization’s strategic communications and local advocacy efforts to secure healthy air, clean water, vibrant public lands, and a strong democracy for all who call Ohio home. She is passionate about working with community members, partners, and leaders across the state to advance strong environmental justice and climate action policies. Emily earned her B.S. in Environmental Geography from Ohio University and Masters of Urban and Environmental Planning from the University of Virginia. She previously worked for Western Reserve Land Conservancy and Youth Opportunities Unlimited, and serves on Cleveland VOTES Advisory Board and as College Now mentor. A resident of Cleveland, Emily enjoys exploring the region’s incredible parks as well as the shores of Lake Erie with family and friends.
Nolan Rutschilling
Managing Director of Energy Policy
Nolan Rutschilling is a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. He holds a B.S. in Environmental Policy and Decision Making from The Ohio State University, and a Graduate Certificate in Public and NonProfit Leadership from the Glenn College of The Ohio State University. Nolan has experience guiding climate and energy policy at the Ohio Legislature, Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, and local government work. He also has worked in corporate sustainability and carbon footprint analysis. Most recently, Nolan worked as the Energy and Sustainability Program Director of the Ohio Hospital Association, guiding all energy and environmental efforts related to Ohio’s healthcare systems. Nolan is a founding member of New Leaders Council of Columbus. Nolan is passionate about preventing and mitigating the impacts of climate change, particularly as they impact marginalized populations.
Jesse Velazquez
Climate Justice Manager
As Climate Justice Manager for the Ohio Environmental Council, Jesse works to bring recognition for inequitable social conditions exacerbated by climate change and help advocate for equitable solutions that empower marginalized communities. Jesse worked for years in retail management before his passion for environmental justice and climate action led him to pursue an education and career path to better impact his community.
Jesse earned a BA in Sustainability and the Environment from Florida International University and is a resident of Cincinnati, OH, where he also spent his childhood. Jesse interned with Green Umbrella and Greater Cincinnati’s Regional Climate Collaborative to work on equitable climate action locally. Jesse is an avid hiker and is working towards completing the Buckeye Trail to see Ohio at the pace of 3 miles per hour.
