Global Climate Change
Global climate change, as caused by global warming, is threatening to disrupt all life on our planet. The effects can be seen in the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts. The impact on agriculture and fisheries threatens the global food supply. The causes of global warming can be traced to greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which trap radiant heat in the atmosphere and also reflect it back to earth. The burning of fossil fuels, the release of methane during natural gas production and the rising temperatures on earth melting the permafrost that covers natural sources of methane in the Arctic only add to the worsening issues we face. 

The Biophysical Society supports and advocates policies, including the 2016 Paris Accord (COP 21), that move the world to halt global warming, to eliminate fossil fuels, promote renewable energy sources, and that recognize environmental justice for all people.

Adopted February 15, 2017
 

Theory of Evolution and Education
The Biophysical Society is deeply troubled by attempts in the United States to suppress the teaching of evolution in K-12 public schools, or to temper the teaching with disclaimers or alternative theories about the origin of human life on earth. As biophysicists, we are engaged in studying the structure and function of living organisms at a molecular level. The hypothesis that binds these studies is the theory of evolution. By contrast, some believe that Biblical Creationism or Intelligent Design should be taught instead of, or alongside, evolution in K-12 science classrooms. 

The Biophysical Society is strongly opposed to any effort to blur the distinction between science and theology by teaching or presenting non-scientific beliefs in science classrooms. Accepting the evidence that evolution has and continues to take place does not preclude one from believing in theologies, but those beliefs have no place in a science curriculum. Working in conjunction with the National Center for Science Education, the Biophysical Society continues to monitor threats to science education and weigh in on this important issue when needed. 

Adopted November 5, 2005