About Us
The Union of Concerned Scientists is the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world. UCS combines independent scientific research and citizen action to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices.
What began as a collaboration between students and faculty members at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1969 is now an alliance of more than 250,000 citizens and scientists. UCS members are people from all walks of life: parents and businesspeople, biologists and physicists, teachers and students. Our achievements over the decades show that thoughtful action based on the best available science can help safeguard our future and the future of our planet.
Independent Science
UCS stands out among nonprofit organizations as the reliable source for independent scientific analysis. In an increasingly complex and technical world, rigorous and objective research and analysis is essential to devise innovative and effective solutions for cleaner air, energy and transportation, to ensure food is produced in a safe and sustainable manner, and to build a future free from the threats of global warming and nuclear war.
The experts on our staff are highly respected in both Washington, DC, and state capitals, and are frequently called to testify before government committees.
UCS analysis doesn't gather dust. We collaborate with respected researchers across the world and together with concerned citizens, we actively engage policymakers, the media, and other organizations to extend the reach of our work and drive positive change.
Mission
The Union of Concerned Scientists is a nonprofit partnership of scientists and citizens combining rigorous scientific analysis, innovative policy development, and effective citizen advocacy to achieve practical environmental solutions.Established in 1969, we seek to ensure that all people have clean air, energy, and transportation, as well as food that is produced in a safe and sustainable manner. We strive for a future that is free from the threats of global warming and nuclear war, and a planet that supports a rich diversity of life. Sound science guides our efforts to secure changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices that will protect and improve the health of our environment globally, nationally, and in communities throughout the United States. In short, UCS seeks a great change in humanity's stewardship of the earth.
Success
Winning higher fuel economy standards for cars and SUVs nationwide, expanding the use of clean, renewable electricity by passing renewable standards in 26 states, achieving federal reforms to get politics out of science at federal agencies--these are just a few of the many UCS successes in recent years.Since 1969, the Union of Concerned Scientists has brought together the knowledge and influence of the scientific community with the passion of concerned citizens to work for a healthy environment and a safer world.
More about our accomplishments in 2000s, 1990s, 1980s, 1970s & 1960s
Get Involved
The Union of Concerned Scientists is for anyone who believes the facts, not ideology, should drive our decisions. It’s for everyone who understands that scientific knowledge and technical expertise is best deployed to improve the quality of our lives and natural world, not destroy it.When you become a member of UCS, you join a passionate group of individuals committed to finding and implementing solutions to some of the most challenging environmental and global security issues of our time.
The UCS Online Action Network makes it easy for you to stay informed and communicate directly with the people currently making critical decisions that affect our planet.
Our electronic scientist and expert networks give experts a voice in shaping responsible state and federal policies.
Read on for other ways you can help UCS create a healthier, safer world.
