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Comment

Comment: Crystallizing the future: Advocating for chemistry’s tomorrow

by Ann C. Kimble-Hill, chair, ACS Committee on Chemistry and Public Affairs

February 18, 2025 | A version of this story appeared in Volume 103, Issue 5
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Ann C. Kimble-Hill.
Credit: Christine Brennan Schmidt
Ann C. Kimble-Hill

I am excited to begin my role as chair of the American Chemical Society Committee on Chemistry and Public Affairs (CCPA). CCPA is responsible for advising and making recommendations for ACS actions on public policy matters involving chemistry sciences and technologies. As we celebrate the committee’s 60th anniversary, this is a perfect time to reflect on our legacy and look ahead to how we can continue to advance evidence-based policy to benefit society.

A legacy of advocacy

CCPA has worked to ensure that science informs public policy. Established in 1965, the committee has upheld ACS’s mission to advance chemistry for the public good, address critical societal issues, and empower chemists to engage in advocacy. A few highlights of CCPA’s impact over the years include the following:

▶ Influencing federal policy: CCPA played a pivotal role in establishing the ACS Congressional Fellowship program in 1974. The program has since embedded chemists in legislative offices to provide expert advice on scientific issues.

▶ Promoting trust in science: Through initiatives like the Trust in Science Roundtable, the committee has encouraged scientists to connect with the public using empathy and accessible communication to help rebuild trust in scientific institutions.

▶ Shaping public perception of chemistry: By facilitating grassroots advocacy and connecting ACS members with legislators, CCPA has consistently championed evidence-based policymaking. Programs like the ACS Advocacy Workshops have empowered members to actively advocate for funding, education, and sustainability.

▶ Strengthening the policy ecosystem: CCPA has contributed to developing ACS policy statements that address crosscutting issues to ensure that chemistry remains central to policy discussions.

CCPA’s vision for 2025

This year, we will focus on the following actions:

▶ analyzing key science policy issues and developing actionable recommendations while keeping a keen eye on the rapidly changing political landscape

▶ providing a platform for active collaboration with ACS leadership, governance committees, and members to strengthen the role of chemistry and chemistry practitioners in policymaking

▶ supporting members in advocating effectively by providing tools and opportunities to engage with decision-makers

Get involved

CCPA’s 60th anniversary offers a unique chance for ACS members to engage in advocacy. We encourage you, as ACS members, to see 2025 as an opportunity to reignite your engagement in shaping public policy and advocate for evidence-based solutions. Through collective action, we can amplify the voice of chemistry in addressing regional, national, and global challenges. Here’s how you can participate:

▶ Use the Act4Chemistry Toolkit to share your story, connect with policymakers, and advocate for science-based solutions.

▶ Engage your legislative representatives on critical issues, including funding for science, sustainable chemistry, and education reform, by using information from the ACS advocacy website at www.acs.org/policy/memberadvocacy/issues.html.

▶ As we honor 6 decades of success, let’s work together to crystallize a future where chemistry continues to drive innovation, address global challenges, and improve lives. Visit www.acs.org/policy to learn more about advocacy events and resources.

Here’s to 60 years of chemistry advocacy—and the many more years to come!

Views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of C&EN or ACS.

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