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
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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.
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Provided the Science Behind Landmark Court Case
A court in the Netherlands—citing UCS analysis—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.
Elvert Barnes/Flickr
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.
Major accomplishments
Secured Fuel Efficiency Standards for Big Trucks
UCS analysis informed the development of heavy-duty fuel economy standards.
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.
UCS Fully Divests From Fossil Fuel Interests
After reevaluating our investment portfolio, we uncovered small fossil fuel holdings within "sustainability funds"—and immediately divested.
Spotlighted How Restructuring US Food Policy Could Save Trillions
A UCS video and analysis, demonstrated the health and environmental benefits of restructuring our food system.
Exposed Misinformation and Media Bias
A UCS analysis exposed extremely misleading climate coverage.
Won Protection for Scientific Whistleblowers
UCS won a landmark victory in Congress with the passage of a bill that explicitly grants whistleblowers protection.
Provided Critical, Independent Expertise on the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster
UCS issued a report highlighting the steps the US government should take to increase safety and resilience at American nuclear plants.
Helped Reduce Nuclear Stockpiles in the United States & Russia
UCS technical expertise informed the US Senate decision to approve the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty.
Dramatically Cut Emissions from Cars and Trucks
Emissions and fuel efficiency standards are a signature UCS victory.
Halved Global Warming Emissions in the Northeast
Climate experts relied upon UCS analysis to craft the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.
Feature
50 Years of Science and Action
Since our founding in 1969 we've helped address some of the world’s most pressing problems.