Author: <span>rebeccachillrud</span>

Promoting Science-Based Policies in the Era of “Alternative Facts”

In one episode of NBC’s Parks and Recreation, Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) tries to pass a bill adding fluoride to the town’s water source.  She’s opposed by a councilman/dentist who wants to continue making money off of the many cavities that occur in the town.  As she discusses the debate, …

Trying to Get By Without Science Direct: Learning a Different Kind of Research

When I moved from the academic setting at Bard to Washington, D.C. to start my internship, one of my biggest adjustments—besides dealing with city living—was learning a new style of research.  I’ve always loved research, but in the past, my research has been primarily focused in databases.  My work experience …

Tiny Office, Big Impact: My Work at EESI

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) is a non-profit that works in the heart of the national political arena. This small organization is something of a hidden gem among the environmental giants in D.C., with a wide-reaching impact and a network of relationships with NGOs, policymakers, agencies, and industry. …

Less bang for your buck? Climate change makes staple crops less healthy

Imagine the protein content in foods you eat every day decreasing.  Foods that are staples around the world–wheat, corn, rice–all lower in protein and higher in carbohydrates.  Science has already shown that global crop yields will decrease in coming years because they won’t be able to take the heat.  But a …