David B. Goldstein championed energy efficiency and climate action over a distinguished career that spanned continents, disciplines, and decades. He worked at NRDC for more than 40 years, helped pass federal energy efficiency legislation, and helped create the New Buildings Institute. Among these many contributions to the field of energy efficiency, he co-founded the Institute for Market Transformation (IMT) in 1996 to address what he saw as an economy riddled with market failures that waste energy, destroying business opportunity and environmental quality. He was a guiding force for IMT, even as our work changed and expanded. He served on IMT’s Board of Directors until his passing in 2024.
David was consistently recognized for being both brilliant and prolific. In addition to many other accolades, David was awarded a 2002 MacArthur Foundation Award, sometimes referred to as a “genius award” for his energy efficiency work. In 2007, David published Saving Energy, Growing Jobs, which addresses the myth that environmental protection and economic vitality are incompatible.
In addition, David was an extraordinary mentor and advocate for young professionals entering the field. He consistently encouraged the next generation of leaders to find their place and contribute to a shared vision of a prosperous and sustainable built environment.
Read David’s workAs IMT reflects on 30 years of impact, we are proud to announce the launch of the David B. Goldstein Fellowship as a way to honor his legacy as a luminary in the environmental and energy policy world. The Fellow will have the opportunity to support better buildings by researching a topic of their choice as part of a full-time, paid 12-month position with IMT.
IMT is now accepting applications for this fellowship, and we plan to welcome our inaugural Fellow this Fall. Please consider supporting the fellowship, and IMT’s work by making a contribution.
