Have you ever wondered about the role chemists might play in crafting public policy at the local and at the national level?  While some in the scientific community frequently state the case that scientists should not be engaged in policy, others made persuasive arguments about the important contributions experimental data and scientific methodologies make to discourse about policies and their potential outcomes once implemented.  Here are two examples for your consideration and an opportunity to have your voice heard.

Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act of 2018

Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) have introduced S. 3296, the Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development Act of 2018. This important legislation establishes an interagency coordinating authority at the Office of Science and Technology Policy to foster green and sustainable chemistry research across the federal scientific enterprise. Additionally it establishes a public-private partnership program to help encourage the transition of laboratory innovations into the marketplace. It also calls on federal agencies to report to Congress on their efforts to promote sustainable chemistry. Encouraging sustainability in chemistry is a core tenet of the American Chemical Society and we are working to expand efforts at federal agencies. Getting cosponsors for this legislation is an important step in helping Sens. Collins and Coons to have the Senate hold a hearing and consider this bill for passage. We ask you to reach out to your Senators and ask them to cosponsor S. 3296. 

Northfield Climate Action Plan - Survey Invitation

The Climate Action Plan Advisory Board (CAPAB) is an advisory board that seeks to lead and engage the Northfield community in responding strategically, rapidly, and responsibly to a changing climate by developing a Climate Action Plan (CAP).  To date, the CAPB has defined the scope of the CAP to be within city limits and determined the main topic areas of the CAP: Energy, Land, Transportation, Materials and Waste, Water and Wastewater, and Food.  Before moving forward, the City of Northfield would like to hear from you! The CAPB has recently released a short survey, which you can fill out below. Have your voice heard and be foundational in the development of Northfield's 2020 Climate Action Plan.

Climate Action Plan Survey

Encuesta del Plan de Acción Climática