No science allowed

Earlier this year, the North Carolina State Senate voted to ban the use of accepted, objective science to predict sea level rise in the state. They didn't just ignore science-based decision making—they forbid its use.¹

Just to be clear, there are not two sides to this story. Sea levels are rising. The flooding from Hurricane Sandy was undeniably worse because of it.²

But when politicians muzzle scientists, they set up their communities for ruin. That's why we called out the North Carolina lawmakers who tried to hide the facts—and why we're showing hundreds of mayors and governors the science that can help their communities prepare.

We've got to do more, and in 2013, we will. By pitching in today, you'll bring science into policy debates from city hall to the halls of Congress. You'll empower scientists to speak out when the facts are challenged. And together, hundreds of thousands strong, we'll hold our leaders accountable.

DEADLINE TOMORROW: Make your tax-deductible contribution to the Union of Concerned Scientists and help us reach our $400,000 goal.

Our innovative solutions led GuideStar's Philanthropedia to name UCS as one of the most effective non-profits working on climate change.³ With gridlock in Congress, we'll keep reaching outside of Washington, D.C. to state and local officials, to get real results that will make a difference in people's lives today.

Independent thinkers like you power our efforts to work with local leaders and bring science into the public discourse. Together, we've been able to:

• Mobilize 120 scientists, engineers, and local leaders in Florida to ask the presidential candidates this fall to discuss the threats posed by sea level rise—a threat they see every day in their communities.⁴
• Partner with organizations throughout coal country, in states like West Virginia, to build support for renewable energy.⁵
• Highlight the danger global warming and heat waves pose for high school athletes—and win policy changes in places like Texas and Georgia to protect young people's lives.⁶

When politicians try to run from science in 2013, innovative campaigns like these will be more important than ever. With your support today, I know we can do more in 2013 to help cities and towns prepare for what lies ahead.

Make a tax-deductible gift today to put science-based solutions to work for cities and towns around the country.

UCS supporters know that scientific analysis is critical to solving our planet's most pressing problems. Your gift today will power the innovative campaigns that put science back into the public discourse and political debate.

Thank you for supporting science.

Sincerely, Kevin Knobloch President