Table of Contents
We’ve combined science and advocacy for more than fifty years. The results speak for themselves.
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
S. Young/UCS
Historic Win for Survivors of Radiation Exposure
For years, UCS has worked with communities exposed to radiation from US nuclear weapons activities for justice and compensation. Legislation providing compensation lapsed in 2024; after much advocacy, Congress renewed and expanded it to cover more people.
Cavan Images/Getty Images
UCS Science, Advocacy Help Secure Clean Energy in Maine
A new Maine law requires the state’s power to come from 100% carbon-free electricity sources by 2040, saving consumers money. UCS staff rallied support for the law by testifying at hearings, promoting a lobby day, and working with local partners.
Clemens van Lay/Unsplash
Nuclear Security Agency Responds To UCS Scientist's Concerns
After a UCS scientist co-authored an article on the potential for a certain kind of in demand uranium fuel to be used to make nuclear weapons, US nuclear security agency NNSA agreed to sponsor a study on this risk.
Major accomplishments
Image: UCS
Demonstrated the Vulnerability of US Missile Defense Plans
UCS released a report documenting how a costly missile defense system could be overpowered by relatively simple countermeasures.
Led the Way on International Climate Agreements
UCS led a delegation of US nonprofit organizations to the international climate negotiations.
Leveraging “new” email technology, UCS launches the UCS Science Network, a group of engaged scientists now 25,000 strong.
UCS launches the UCS Science Network.
Federal farm subsidies encourage farmers to keep growing more corn and soybeans, even when prices fall. As a result, a large chunk of annual US farm income comes directly from taxpayers.
Photo: Ali Eminov, CC-BY-NC-2.0 (Flickr)
UCS begins work on food and agriculture issues.
UCS begins work on food and agriculture issues.
Pioneered Breakthrough Approach to Renewable Energy
UCS released a report outlining how states could take advantage of energy deregulation.
Issued “World Scientists' Warning To Humanity”
UCS alerted the public to the threat of climate change and the need for sustainability.
UCS opens its West Coast office in California.
UCS opens its West Coast office in California.
jaminwell/iStock
Called for Increased Fuel Efficiency and Exploration into Alternative Fuels
UCS released a landmark report on fuel efficiency.
Photo: B137/Creative Commons (Wikimedia Commons)
UCS expands with a dedicated team to work on climate change.
UCS expands with a dedicated team to work on climate change.
Protected Nuclear Plant Workers and the Public
UCS successfully sued the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Feature
50 Years of Science and Action
Since our founding in 1969 we've helped address some of the world’s most pressing problems.