8 Green Thinkers Make the List of 100 Most Influential People

Time magazine has announced its 100 most influential people for the year, and there are several interesting picks working on sustainability issues, most notably food. One interesting thing about Time's list is not just the honoree, but the person chosen to write about that honoree. Here's a look at both:

• Michael Pollan, the author of Omnivore's Dilemma and Food Rules, and the driving force behind the movie Food, Inc., Pollan is a standout among sustainable, healthy food advocates. Feted by chef Alice Waters.

• Kathleen Merrigan, now an insider at the Department of Agriculture, remains an advocate for organic and local foods, pushing for strong standards and fair subsidies for alternative forms of agriculture. Feted by chef Dan Barber.

• Lisa Jackson, as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, is leading the nation's efforts to curtail greenhouse gas pollution and address climate change. Feted by William D. Ruckelshaus, the first EPA administrator.

• Elon Musk, designer of the Tesla electric car, also helped found Solar City, an innovative company that leases solar panels to homeowners to reduce the upfront cost of installation. Feted by Jon Landreau, the director of Iron Man.

• James Cameron, the pioneering director, brought the environmental fable Avatar to vivid 3D life. Feted by Sigourney Weaver.

• Will Allen, of Milwaukee's Growing Power Inc., is an urban farmer who runs a 2-acre Community Food Center. Feted by green jobs advocate Van Jones.

• Amy Smith, founder of MIT's innovative D-Lab, is developing innovative low-energy and recycling projects, like a no-energy incubator. Feted by MIT colleague Sandy Pentland.

• Tristan Lecomte, founder of Alter Eco, has helped increase the market for Fair Trade goods. Feted by Gael García Bernal, a Spanish actor.

For a look at some other influential green thinkers, check out the winners of our Heart of Green Awards:

• Ted Danson, actor and oceans advocate: Lifetime Achievement
• Dr. Philip Landrigan, pioneering pediatrician: The Protector
• John Flicker, leader of the National Audubon Society: The Steward
• Jamie Oliver, celebrity chef: The Food Revolutionary
• Josie Maran, founder of a nontoxic cosmetics line: The Role Model
• Tracey Ryder and Carole Topalian, founders of Edible Communities: The Ground Breakers
• Fred Schaeffer, chairman of Walkway Over the Hudson: Local Hero
  
  

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