We use science to make change happen.
The Union of Concerned Scientists is a member-supported nonprofit fighting for a safer, healthier, and more just world. Our members are everyday people just like you.
Who we are
The Union of Concerned Scientists is a national nonprofit organization founded more than 50 years ago by scientists and students at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Our mission: The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science into action, developing solutions and advocating for a healthy, safe, and just future.
Today, we are a group of nearly 250 scientists, analysts, policy experts, and strategic communicators dedicated to that purpose.
How we work
We don’t just use science to envision a better world—we work to achieve it.
- Analyze. Our experts undertake rigorous, independent research, analyzing pressing problems and developing innovative solutions that prioritize human health, and are both equitable and cost effective.
- Expose. When special interests release bogus studies, corporations sow doubt about science, or political operatives censor, manipulate, or undermine government science, UCS is there to set the record straight with the public, the news media, and our elected officials.
- Advocate. Our experienced researchers communicate to the media, to the public, and directly to key decisionmakers at the national, state, and local levels, advocating for changes in public policies and corporate practices.
- Activate. We mobilize our 500,000 supporters to press for specific changes that will result in healthier communities, sustainable environment, and a safer world. We also know the best way to achieve positive, lasting change is to work together with allies who bring diverse talents, knowledge, and experience to an issue. That’s why we are currently providing technical expertise and advocacy know-how to more than 1,500 local and national organizations.
What we care about
Our founders knew science and evidence-based decisionmaking was critical to solving many of the biggest challenges facing humankind. To make progress we would need to work persistently in the face of often daunting odds. That's just what we’ve done.
- We combat climate change and seek to alleviate harm caused by the heat, sea level rise, and other consequences of runaway emissions,
- We strive to develop sustainable ways to feed, power, and transport ourselves,
- We work to reduce the existential threat of nuclear war,
- We fight back when powerful corporations or special interests mislead the public on science, and
- We ensure our solutions advance racial and economic equity.
Where does UCS get its funding?
We are funded solely by individuals and independent foundations. To protect our independence we do not accept corporate or government grants. Our supporters include everyday people who value rational, evidence-based decisionmaking, as well as some of the nation’s top scientists.
Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes. UCS is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Your gift is tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law. You will receive a receipt by email if you give online; all other gifts will receive a receipt by mail.
