We started as a small group of dedicated volunteers with a shared idea, and over time, we've grown into a team of economists, scientists, policy experts, and advocates working together for change.
Our story
A big idea, a bold beginning.
In 2016, a group of dedicated volunteers—who would go on to form Carbon Washington—put the first-ever statewide carbon pricing measure on the ballot. The initiative aimed to cut carbon emissions while addressing Washington’s regressive tax code. Though it didn’t pass, it sparked a statewide conversation about climate solutions and proved that ambitious, citizen-driven policy is possible.
Redefining success.
In 2017, with new people and a broader vision, Carbon Washington shifted from a campaign-focused model to a policy and advocacy organization. We began developing and championing a range of climate solutions—from carbon sequestration and building codes to vehicle electrification. Our policy work played a key role in shaping Washington’s Sustainable Farms & Fields Program, which supports climate-smart practices in agriculture.
Maximizing impact.
Today, we’re collaborating with partners across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to help unlock $30 billion in climate investments by 2030. Washington is already leading with ambitious climate policies—including an economy-wide price on carbon—but reaching our targets will require sustained investment in infrastructure, communities, and innovation. We’re focused on the financial and policy solutions that turn climate goals into reality.
Our team
Doug Ray, PhD | Chair
Doug is a Senior Research Fellow Emeritus and former Associate Laboratory Director at the U. S. Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. He is a recognized authority on decarbonizing the global energy system and the environmental consequences of energy production and use. He earned a PhD in Chemistry from the University of California at Berkeley, is an elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and a contributing member of several national and international organizations.
Peter Kelly, PhD | Vice Chair
Peter Kelly earned a PhD in Agricultural and Resource Economics from UC Berkeley and was a full-time faculty member at Renmin University of China. He is an associate editor at the Journal of Forest Economics and author of publications on the economics of sustainable land use. He is also founder of Grow Further, a nonprofit organization supporting agricultural science in developing countries to benefit small-scale farmers and the environment.
Dan Shih | Secretary-Treasurer
Dan is an attorney at Susman Godfrey LLP, representing clients in courts across the country on complex litigation matters. He earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Princeton and a master’s degree in economics and J.D. from Stanford. Prior to law school, Dan worked as a management consultant and in private equity. Dan also serves as a board member for the Center for Children & Youth Justice, Seattle Moisture Festival, and PRX. Dan lives in Seattle with his husband and three daughters.
Ishita Shahi | Communications
Ishita Shahi is a Digital Communications Manager at Carbon Washington. Previously, she worked with the United Nations in the Peace and Security Campaigns Section and began her career as a journalist in Nepal. She holds a master’s degree in Digital Media from the University of Washington.
Kate Pflaumer | Governance
Kate Pflaumer was the United States Attorney for the Western District of Washington during the Clinton Administration and since then has been a special master and tort claims reviewer appointed to assist courts in sensitive cases. She is former chair of the board of the Puget Soundkeeper Alliance.