Science on the Hill: Climate, Jobs, and the Economy

The fifth annual Science on the Hill event took place on November 19th, 2021 and brought together policy leaders and scientists to discuss how the U.S. can simultaneously take action against the climate crisis, protect jobs, and grow a strong economy. During the event, researchers identified policies that provide stability and economic fairness for workers who transition from traditional energy jobs. In addition, they highlighted how environmental protection can create high-paying jobs and prevent the tremendous personal losses created by climate-driven disasters such as drought and extreme storms. The event also highlighted climate solutions presented at COP26, the 26th  United Nations Climate Change conference. You can now watch the recording of the event below.

Scientists and policy leaders participated in a panel discussion and a Q&A session moderated by Scientific American's Laura Helmuth and Josh Fischman on the following topics:

Achieving net zero carbon emission goals while creating jobs and a strong economy

Supporting the private sector transition to net zero

Ensuring equity in the clean energy transition

Key takeaways from COP26

Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) and Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-09) discussed realistic policy options. 

The event was hosted by Scientific American and Nature Portfolio, both part of , and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

Relevant content

  • Climate Research in Action

    In celebration of COP26, and to ensure delegates and policymakers have all the information they need to make evidence-based climate decisions, has compiled a selection of some of the most important recent research on climate change, adaptation and mitigation. The Climate Research in Action campaign microsite also features a guide to the conference by the Nature team and a timeline of the Ozone Story: the scientific discovery of a hole in the Ozone layer first published in Nature, which spurred global leaders to create the most successful environmental treaty of all time, the Montreal Protocol. 

    to learn more about the role of research in driving climate action.

  • Resources from the National Academies

Past “Science on the Hill” events