ACS Policy Priority

Promote Science and Sustainability in Public Policy

Science can lead to a better understanding of new solutions to many of society’s problems, including environmental and health issues. To achieve this, the best science should be available to, and used by, government officials when making decisions. To achieve confidence in government decisions that depend upon science and technology, science must be considered in an open and responsible manner. ACS supports efforts to:

  • Encourage environmental decisions that promote sustainable resource usage and waste prevention in an economically viable chemical enterprise.
  • Assure appropriate, balanced used of voluntary and regulatory measures in achieving environmental, health, safety, and security goals and promote the responsible use of science in environmental management.
  • Encourage appropriate global harmonization of environmental, health, and safety initiatives to advance science and technology around the globe.
  • Promote institutions and guidelines to assure that governments make appropriate and open use of scientific and technological information in making policy decisions.
Statement Position
Biomonitoring Supports collection of biomonitoring data to better identify, understand, and communicate the potential risks associated with chemical exposures. Encourages the development of biomonitoring methodology to track the fate of chemicals, their exposure pathways, uptake mechanisms, and trends in human exposures.
Chemicals Management and Regulation Addresses issues of public confidence, risk assessment, the responsibilities of industry, and sustainability. Makes specific recommendations on incorporation of green chemistry principles; data, testing, and exemptions; and the education and training of chemical scientists.
Climate Reviews the science and recommends action on reducing greenhouse gases as well as climate change adaptation strategies. Encourages continued research and funding into the effects of climate change, while also emphasizing the importance of educating the public on the issue.
Endocrine Disruption Endorses expanded education and research, and the development of more effective methods for reducing exposures of humans and the environment.
Inherently Safer Technology (IST) Supports federal support of developing IST and greater use of IST in reducing risk.
Regulation of Laboratory Waste Reviews the pitfalls of regulations that are intended for large-scale chemical manufacturing being applied to laboratories.
Scientific Insight and Integrity Supports the use of comprehensive scientific research and analyses to assist the development and evaluation of policy options. Encourages policies that assist the government in obtaining and integrating scientific assessments.
Sustainability of the Chemical Enterprise Defines the concept of sustainability in the context of the chemical enterprise. Supports government incentives for sustainable technologies