Boiling Point: How John Francis Became a Planetwalker

Hosted by Sammy Roth | Released: February 27, 2025

In this compelling episode of Boiling Point, Sammy Roth delves into the extraordinary life and unwavering dedication of environmental justice activist John Francis, affectionately known as the "Planetwalker." Through an engaging conversation, Roth explores Francis's transformative journey from silent protestor to influential environmental analyst, highlighting his profound insights on kindness, social justice, and sustainable living.

1. Introduction to John Francis

The episode opens with John Francis reflecting on his ability to maintain hope amidst the climate crisis. He attributes his optimism to witnessing positive changes in clean energy and engaging with passionate climate activists.

John Francis [00:24]: "People ask me all the time how I stay hopeful... But the more complicated reality is that I do worry. Of course I worry. How could I not?"

Sammy Roth introduces Francis's background, emphasizing his long-term commitment to environmental issues sparked by witnessing a devastating oil spill in San Francisco Bay in the early 1970s.

2. The Catalyst: The 1971 San Francisco Bay Oil Spill

Francis recounts the pivotal moment that ignited his environmental activism. The collision of two oil tankers resulted in an 800,000-gallon fossil fuel spill, deeply affecting Francis and shaping his future endeavors.

John Francis [02:41]: "It was the first time that I actually saw an environmental insult of that magnitude. The birds flapping in the water and the fish turning over and dying, and I could smell the oil."

This traumatic event led Francis to take drastic measures in protest, including a 17-year vow of silence and abstaining from motor vehicle use for 22 years.

3. Unique Forms of Protest: Vow of Silence and Vehicular Abstinence

Francis chose silence and walking as his forms of protest, methods that set him apart in the environmental movement. These acts symbolized his commitment to living sustainably and drawing attention to the environmental degradation caused by fossil fuels.

John Francis [05:39]: "I chose an unusual and provocative form of protest. He took a vow of silence that ultimately lasted 17 years. He also refused to ride in motor vehicles for 22 years."

These choices not only raised awareness but also demonstrated the personal sacrifices involved in advocating for environmental causes.

4. Influencing Policy: Contributions to Oil Pollution Regulations

Despite his vow of silence, Francis's expertise in environmental studies led him to collaborate with the U.S. Coast Guard in developing crucial oil pollution regulations. His work has had a lasting impact on reducing oil spills in marine environments.

John Francis [10:16]: "I was the environmental analyst and project manager for those regulations... we passed the double tank double hull regulation where for low speed impacts you have a double hull."

Key regulations introduced include:

• Double Hulls for Tankers: Minimizing oil leaks during low-speed impacts.
• Oil Flow Detectors: Alerting when oil levels approach deck height.
• Mandatory Scuppers and Bridge Staffing: Enhancing safety protocols during oil loading.

5. Philosophy of Kindness and Social Justice

A central theme of the conversation is Francis's belief in kindness as the "special sauce" for addressing environmental and social challenges. He emphasizes that sustainable environmental practices are inherently linked to how we treat one another.

John Francis [20:47]: "Kindness transcended all of those things to allow people to say, do you need a place to stay? Can I help you with a meal?"

Francis discusses the intersectionality of environmentalism with racial equity and social justice, arguing that oppression and exploitation directly impact the environment.

John Francis [16:35]: "If we oppress one another, if we exploit each other, then that was gonna manifest back in the physical environment."

6. Overcoming Criticism and Embracing Participation

Addressing skepticism and criticism, especially from those who point out his past actions of abstaining from motorized vehicles, Francis asserts that everyone is part of the environmental system and has a role to play in its transformation.

John Francis [28:00]: "Yeah, I am a part of it... we're all the environment."

He encourages maintaining dialogue and practicing kindness, even when faced with opposition, to foster collective action towards environmental sustainability.

7. Current Projects and Future Endeavors: Walking Across Africa

Francis is currently embarking on a new journey to walk from Cape Town, South Africa to Cairo, Egypt, aiming to raise awareness about climate change and the importance of kindness in community building. This expedition is part of his collaboration with globe.gov, an international environmental education initiative.

John Francis [33:03]: "I'm working with a group called the globe program... asking the children to add another layer about kindness."

Through this journey, Francis continues to inspire and educate, blending his activism with personal exploration and community engagement.

8. Perspectives on Electric Vehicles

When discussing sustainable transportation, Francis compares choosing between hybrid and electric vehicles to selecting comfortable shoes—emphasizing personal preference and practicality.

John Francis [36:03]: "I'd say the same thing about a car. For me, right now, hybrid cars are the most comfortable for me... go for the comfort."

He advocates for accessibility and inclusivity in the transition to greener transportation options, recognizing diverse needs and circumstances.

9. Closing Reflections and Banjo Performance

The episode concludes with Francis sharing his belief in the power of kindness and his personal joy found in playing the banjo, symbolizing the harmony between personal fulfillment and environmental activism.

John Francis [24:33]: "I play the banjo. And I think it's because people are kind and that kindness really is the special sauce."

He closes with a heartfelt banjo performance, embodying the spirit of hope and resilience that defines his life's work.

Conclusion

In "How John Francis Became a Planetwalker," Sammy Roth presents a profound narrative of environmental activism intertwined with personal sacrifice and unwavering hope. John Francis's journey underscores the critical role of kindness and social justice in combating climate change, offering listeners both inspiration and a blueprint for meaningful action.

Notable Quotes:

• John Francis [00:24]: "People ask me all the time how I stay hopeful... But the more complicated reality is that I do worry. Of course I worry."

• John Francis [02:41]: "It was the first time that I actually saw an environmental insult of that magnitude."

• John Francis [20:47]: "Kindness transcended all of those things to allow people to say, do you need a place to stay? Can I help you with a meal?"

• John Francis [36:03]: "I'd say the same thing about a car... go for the comfort."

Listeners are encouraged to watch the documentary "Planet Walker" at latimes.com/shortdocs and follow John Francis's ongoing journeys and advocacy efforts.