John Francis

Fellow at National Geographic Education, Lecturer and Keynote Speaker

John Francis, known as The Planetwalker, is an influential American environmentalist and educator, currently serving as the first Education Fellow at the National Geographic Society, a position he has held since 2010. Born in 1946 in Philadelphia, he moved to Marin County, California, where his environmental journey began after witnessing the devastating oil spill in San Francisco Bay in 1971. This experience prompted him to stop using motorized vehicles and embark on extensive walking journeys across the United States and beyond, a commitment that lasted for over two decades.1 2 3

Educational Background

John Francis has a notable academic background:

Bachelor of Science from Southern Oregon State College.
Master's degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Montana.
PhD in Land Resources from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.1 2 3

During his 17 years of voluntary silence, he focused on his studies and traveled extensively, which included walking across the continental United States and parts of South America. His silence was a personal vow that allowed him to reflect deeply on his experiences and the environment.1 2

Career and Contributions

In addition to his role at National Geographic, Francis founded Planetwalk, a nonprofit organization aimed at raising environmental awareness. He has authored several books, including Planetwalker: How to Change Your World One Step at a Time and The Ragged Edge of Silence: Finding Peace in a Noisy World, both of which explore his experiences and philosophy regarding environmental stewardship.2 3

Francis has also served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme, focusing on grassroots environmental initiatives. His work emphasizes the interconnectedness of human behavior and environmental health, advocating for inclusive approaches to conservation that engage diverse communities.1 2 4

Current Work

At National Geographic, John Francis is involved in developing educational curricula that promote environmental literacy among K-12 students. His initiatives encourage students to explore their relationship with the environment through experiential learning and community engagement.3 4 He continues to inspire individuals worldwide through lectures, workshops, and his ongoing walks that retrace significant routes across America.1 2

Overall, John Francis embodies a unique blend of activism, education, and personal commitment to environmental issues, making significant contributions to both academia and community awareness.