CHICAGO—Golin/Harris International has formed a new environmental public affairs specialty practice to handle communications and government relations challenges specifically related to environmental issues. 

The practice will be based in the Washington office and be led by Golin/Harris vice president Erin Hart. Prior to joining Golin/Harris, Hart was Florida’s environmental education director.  In addition to her work with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, she also worked at Florida Museum of Natural History.

The practice includes a team of five professionals with the experience and relationships necessary to navigate complex issues.  Other practice leaders include senior vice president Kurt Markva, who has 11 years of Capitol Hill experience under two Republican members, and account group supervisor Lisa Magnino, who brings more than 10 years of agency and nonprofit experience on an array of environmental issues.

New clients for the practice include the U.S. Green Building Council, an industry coalition that promotes environmentally responsible buildings, and AbTech Industries, a manufacturer of proprietary storm water systems. The practice will also provide services to several existing Golin/Harris clients.

“The environmental public affairs practice team is committed to giving our clients sound advice, rooted in a diverse set of experiences in public affairs and the environment,” said Lane Bailey, managing director of the Golin/Harris Washington, D.C. Office. “Our team is well positioned to handle the complex communications and public affairs challenges that have become increasingly a part of environmental public policy and business.”