Union of Concerned Scientists Appoints Agroecologist to Lead Food and Environment Program

Dr. Kate Anderson has joined the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) as director of the Food and Environment Program.

Anderson brings with her nearly two decades of research experience working at the intersection of agriculture, political economy and environmental justice. Prior to joining UCS, she led Sightline Institute's Farms & Forests Research Program, where she supported sustainable forestry and reducing the Pacific Northwest's "carbon hoof-print." Anderson has also researched and taught agroecology and environmental sociology at University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of California, Berkeley where she investigated the growth of organics in the dairy industry, supply management, and producer association dynamics in the farm sector.

"Our farm and food systems are brimming with creativity and talent, yet they're constrained by inequitable and irrational policies," said Anderson. "I'm thrilled to join the Food and Environment Program to advance science-based solutions that can unlock this potential-empowering diverse farmers to thrive sustainably, ensuring healthy food for all, and fostering fair, dignified conditions for workers across the food chain."

Dr. Anderson holds an MS in agricultural economics and PhDs in sociology and in environment & resources from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She replaces Dr. Ricardo Salvador, who retired from UCS after serving as the Food and Environment Program director for 12 years.