Wind turbines behind a solar farm
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About / Accomplishments

Accomplishments

We’ve combined science and advocacy for more than fifty years. The results speak for themselves.

We’ve combined science and advocacy for more than fifty years. The results speak for themselves.

Since our beginning in 1969, the Union of Concerned Scientists, along with supporters, allies, and partners, has helped develop practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems. Together, our advocacy and actions have resulted in an impressive record of success.

As with science, curiosity and passion drive us forward. We are proud of our impact so far—but we know our most important accomplishments lie ahead.

Assembled below is a list of recent UCS-driven wins and major milestones, chronicling the many ways we act at the intersection of science and policy. Each success is made possible through the power of our staff, Science Network, activists, and committed members.

Recent wins

People with laptops sit at a conference table for a meeting.
Gretchen Goldman/UCS

UCS Reconvenes a Science Advisory Panel Disbanded by the EPA

When the EPA dismissed a critical air pollution panel, UCS helped reconvene its experts to submit consensus recommendations to the EPA, which can serve as evidence in any lawsuit about new air quality standards.
Read blog
Two NWS scientists monitor the weather.
NOAA Photo Library

UCS Demands Accountability for “SharpieGate” Scandal

When federal leadership rebuked scientists for speaking out about Hurricane Dorian’s true projected path, UCS and our supporters helped launch an oversight investigation.
Read blog
Electric vehicle being assembled in a factory
General Motors

With UCS-powered advocacy, Colorado Embraces Electric Cars

UCS members and experts in Colorado successfully advocated for the state to adopt a Zero Emissions Vehicle Program, which will press automakers to offer more electric vehicles models in the state.
Read press release

Major accomplishments

Multimodal transportation on Boston's Commonwealth Avenue

Built a Regional Program to Drive Down Transportation Emissions

Nine Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states and Washington, DC committed to developing a regional policy that will reduce transportation emissions and fund a cleaner, modernized transportation system that serves everyone.
Read Blog

Pushed California toward 100 Percent Clean Energy

After many years of UCS providing visionary technical expertise to prove it was possible, California passed a bill requiring that 100 percent of its electricity come from clean, renewable sources by 2045.
Read Blog
A waterfront property for sale sign submerged in flood waters

Showcased the Threat to Coastal Properties from Climate-Driven Sea Level Rise

Using the latest available real estate data, a UCS analysis sent a wake-up call throughout the real estate and insurance markets.
Read Report
Three individuals with stamp withdrawn in yellow

Blocked Anti-Science Nominees from the Trump Administration

UCS mobilized our half-million members and supporters.
Read blog
North Korea map with red push pin

Provided Crucial, Independent Analysis of the North Korean Missile Program

UCS offered trusted, independent analysis of North Korean nuclear capabilities.
Read Blog

Forced ExxonMobil to Acknowledge Climate Change in its Business Plans

A multi-year effort by UCS and activist investors to keep pressure on ExxonMobil.
Read Press Release

Expanded Clean Energy in the Midwest

UCS worked in Illinois to successfully pass a comprehensive energy bill.
Read Report
White semi truck on highway with sunrise

Secured Fuel Efficiency Standards for Big Trucks

UCS analysis informed the development of heavy-duty fuel economy standards.
Read Blog
A file folder with red "not science" stamp covered in black oil

Revealed Climate Deception at ExxonMobil

A UCS report documented that ExxonMobil and other oil and gas companies knew about the dangers their products caused to the climate.
Read Dossiers
Two men with white USNRC hard hats look at document

UCS Reevaluates Our Investment portfolio, Uncovers Small Fossil Fuel Holdings Within “Sustainability Funds,” and Fully Divests From Fossil Fuel Interests.

UCS reevaluates our investment portfolio.
Read Case Study