The Union of Concerned Scientists is very concerned. But about what? In 1969, according to its founding document, students and faculty at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology came together to “initiate a critical and continuing examination of governmental policy in areas where science and technology are of actual or potential significance” and “devise means for turning research applications away from the present emphasis on military technology toward the solution of pressing environmental and social problems.” For those of us who can’t handle the genius-speak at MIT, the Union formed to address important environmental issues of the day. In 2013, these include scientific integrity, global warming, clean vehicles, clean energy, nuclear power, nuclear weapons and global security, and food and agriculture. The Union has been especially active in its work to prove that global warming is indeed occurring and is caused by human activity.
