We’ve combined science and advocacy for more than fifty years. The results speak for themselves.
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
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.
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.
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.
UCS Successfully Advocates for US Loss and Damage Financing
At COP27 this year, countries agreed for the first time to finance a fund compensating vulnerable nations for climate-related loss and damage—a measure UCS advocated for via a joint letter from 143 organizations, and 10,000+ emails from UCS supporters.
UCS Research, Advocacy Inform Game-Changing US Climate Law
After decades of advocacy for a national plan to address climate change, UCS-backed legislation that invests billions to reduce global warming emissions is now law. This opportunity is a stepping stone to more progress for a climate-safe future for all.
CA Vehicle Standards Go Further to Reduce Pollution, Fight Climate Change
California adopted a new set of standards requiring automakers to sell more zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV), including a target of 100% ZEV by 2035. UCS analysis and advocacy helped strengthen these pollution-reducing standards from less ambitious targets.
Years of UCS Advocacy Pay Off with Historic MA Climate Bill
A robust climate bill is now law in Massachusetts, after a lengthy UCS campaign that showed its benefits for people and the economy. The law will help reduce emissions from power plants and vehicles, improving public health.
Helped Pass Climate and Equitable Jobs Act in Illinois
The new law—which UCS tirelessly advocated for with the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition—sets a goal of 100% clean energy, while prioritizing environmental justice communities for pollution reductions.
Provided Expertise to Inform Landmark Court Ruling
A court in the Netherlands—which drew on UCS expertise—ordered Royal Dutch Shell to reduce its carbon emissions. This is the first time a company—much less a fossil fuel company—has been legally required to do so.
Ride-Hailing Will Go Electric in CA after UCS Advocacy
Responding to UCS analysis of ride-hailing's climate risks, California passed groundbreaking legislation that requires companies like Uber and Lyft to have 90% of miles traveled carbon-free by 2030. This will serve as a model for other states.
After significant pressure from UCS and partners, California implemented a first-in-the-nation policy requiring a sales standard for electric, zero-emission freight trucks.
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.
