Who is our first ClimateActionAdvocate?

In a world facing an unprecedented environmental crisis, the urgency of addressing climate change and preserving our planet for future generations has never been greater. In this blog post, we delve into the inspiring journey of Marc Franc de Ferrière, a citizen of the United States, France, and New Zealand, who has dedicated his life to environmental sustainability, climate action, and a multicultural perspective.

A Multifaceted Identity

Marc Franc de Ferrière's unique identity and multicultural background have played a significant role in shaping his worldview. Born and raised in Reims, France, Marc had three childhood dreams: to go to America, create his own company, and obtain a pilot's license. Remarkably, he achieved all three dreams and much more. Today, as a retired individual, he seeks to share the wealth of knowledge and experiences he has gathered over the years.

A Journey of Education and Service

Marc's educational journey began with training as a civil engineer specializing in environmental sciences in the 1970s. Driven by a deep sense of gratitude for the education he received in France, he decided to give back to society. This led him to serve for two years in the French Cooperation, equivalent to the U.S. Peace Corps. His volunteer work took him to Tunisia, where he taught hydraulics and water engineering to vocational school students. This experience taught him the importance of communication, adaptability, and the value of learning other languages, including Arabic.

After his Peace Corps service, Marc emigrated to the United States, where he started working as a civil engineering consultant in Raleigh, North Carolina. His work included designing and supervising the construction of wastewater treatment plants and collection systems, not only in North Carolina but also on consulting projects in Cameroon, West Africa. Marc's dedication and success in the field eventually led him to pursue an MBA at Columbia Business School in New York City in the early 1980s.

Entrepreneurship and Environmental Stewardship

Having gained valuable experience with consulting firms in both the U.S. and France, Marc decided to embark on a new journey by starting his own business in France. He established an international consultancy firm specializing in finding alternative uses for redundant plants, thus saving thousands of jobs across the country. This entrepreneurial endeavor was characterized by innovation, dedication, and a deep understanding of the business world. It was a testament to his ability to connect with executives and speak their language, both figuratively and literally.

Taking Flight for Business and Sustainability

Marc's love for flying became a strategic tool for his business. He had earned his private pilot's license at a young age, and now, he decided to take his passion for flying to the next level. By obtaining a U.S. IFR rating (Instrument Flight Rules) at the age of 50, Marc could rent Flying School planes to fly anywhere in France to meet clients, write proposals, and break down geographical barriers. His third childhood dream had become a reality, allowing him to gain an intimate knowledge of France's geography, industry, and countryside.

A Global Perspective and Commitment to Climate Action

Marc's extensive travels have taken him to countries across Europe, North and South America, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and New Zealand. His exposure to diverse cultures and regions has cultivated a global perspective and a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of the world. Today, at the age of 69, Marc remains committed to making a positive impact.

One of Marc's most significant commitments is his involvement in climate action. He believes that stopping climate change and making the planet livable for all is our top priority. To that end, he volunteers at a non-profit organization, ADIE, which provides micro-credits and business advice to underprivileged individuals in France, helping them start their own businesses.

As a Red Cross volunteer, Marc assists people in his community with various tasks, emphasizing the importance of lending a helping hand to those in need. His commitment to sustainability extends to his personal life, where he focuses on healthy living, including making his own sourdough bread and maintaining a healthy diet.

Embracing Technology for a Sustainable Future

In recent years, Marc has embraced new technologies such as AI, blockchain, and digital marketing to promote sustainability and innovation. He is particularly interested in using these tools to make everyday tasks more efficient and accessible, not only for himself but also for the wider community.

Marc's rich and multifaceted life experience, passion for teaching, and dedication to climate action have led him to launch his blog, "Climate Action Advocate," on the Ghost platform. Through this platform, he aims to share his wisdom, energy, and optimism with others, inspiring them to lead healthy, relaxed, and happy lives while raising awareness about the importance of preserving our planet.

In conclusion, Marc Franc de Ferrière's life journey is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and dedication to making the world a better place. His commitment to environmental stewardship, climate action, and multicultural understanding serves as an inspiration to us all. Together, we can follow in his footsteps and work towards a sustainable and livable future for all.