The Entomological Society of America (ESA) is a non-partisan scientific organization. We represent a broad spectrum of opinions united under one principle: the promotion and advancement of scientific inquiry, discovery, and communication. The issues below are those on which we are most actively engaged. To support our efforts, we join coalitions of scientific societies to further our mission; employ policy specialists to assist in our decision-making; provide accurate scientific input to lawmakers, agency leaders, and other community stakeholders; and develop and support programming to educate scientists about the importance of scientific advocacy. This list of science policy priorities is based on member input. The priorities are overseen by the ESA Science Policy Committee and managed by ESA staff and our collaborators. Of note, the issues below are not listed hierarchically and ESA’s level of engagement on scientific issues can be fluid as circumstances change.
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ACTIVE - Highest level of investing ESA resources
- Scientific integrity
- Invasive insect species
- Pollinator health
- Public health (Vector-borne diseases)
- Climate change
- Science communication
- Loss of biodiversity
Possible Actions to support Active priorities may include meetings with policymakers, hosting/co-hosting Capitol Hill briefings, writing position statements or white papers, engaging with federal agencies or related NGOs, authoring letters of support, social media advocacy, issuing press releases on policy-relevant publications, and/or making presentations at ESA meetings
ENGAGED - Modest level of investing ESA resources
- Insecticide resistance management
- Integrated pest management
- Public outreach and education
- Genetically-modified disease vectors
- Entomological collections
Possible Actions to support Engaged priorities may include participating in briefings hosted by other groups, signing on to letters of support from other groups, meetings with policymakers, writing position statements or white papers, and/or engaging with federal agencies or related NGOs.
WATCHING - Lowest level of investing ESA resources
- Agricultural genetically-modified organisms
- Sustainable agriculture
- Professional education and training
- Food safety
- Urban pest management
Issues in the Watching category align with ESA priorities, but may not merit immediate attention. Engagement will be limited to opportunities that are low-cost and high-impact.
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