FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 23, 2010
Contact: Beth Sciaudone, Ph.D. -- (919) 449-0022
Ken or Kate Gooderham -- (239) 489-2616

What is a science-based organization?
Applying the latest scientific research to the organization's mission is important to many nonprofits.

The term "science-based" is frequently used when discussing organizations, but few people understand what exactly it means in practice. However, when invoking science as the basis for one's positions, it is important to be clear and consistent how science is part of the decision-making process.

Generally, an organization that is "science-based" reviews current scientific research and bases its goals and strategies on that information. Scientific research may be conducted at universities and colleges, or at public or private institutions. There, researchers propose hypotheses and design studies to test these theories to see if they withstand rigorous investigation.

The researcher then gathers empirical, measurable and repeatable evidence to support (or dispute) the hypothesis. These means other people should be able to come to the same conclusion using the same process -- like different people baking the same kind of cake from the same recipe. Scientific researchers also strive to eliminate bias and be as objective as possible in interpreting their results, so that their conclusions are based on provable science, not subjective opinion.

Most scientific research is also subject to peer review, a process where other experts in the field examine the researcher's experimental setup, data and results. A flaw in the process or an opportunity for improvement may be more obvious to someone taking a fresh look at the data.

Peer review of scientific journal articles, also called "refereeing," lets other scientists review work before it is published to make comments and, occasionally, corrections. This helps ensure the published work meets accepted standards of scientific research. Most scientific journals use this process to evaluate manuscripts for publication -- again to ensure that research and conclusions put forth in the article are based on science, not just opinion.

The American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA) considers having the organization's goals and recommendations based on scientific knowledge to be of primary importance. It seeks to bridge the gap between science and action by using scientific knowledge as the foundation of its strategies. The association's quarterly journal, "Shore & Beach," publishes peer-reviewed manuscripts that provide updated scientific information on coastal issues and management to a national and international audience.

Being a science-based organization also implies that ASBPA does not subscribe to "one solution" for any shore preservation situation. Shoreline challenges are always site-specific, and science demands consideration of many possible solutions when looking for an answer. ASBPA also supports funding for basic scientific research focused on addressing future challenges - including sea level rise and climate change

ASBPA projects and initiatives are reviewed by a science and technology committee. According to Dr. Nicole Elko, co-chair of the ASBPA's science and technology committee, "ASBPA has been successful at incorporating cutting-edge coastal science and engineering into policy decisions through active board and general membership of some of the most reputable academics and practitioners in the industry."

ASBPA hopes that the United States will continue at the forefront of scientific coastal research into the 21st century and beyond. For more information on "Shore & Beach" and ASBPA's efforts to provide science-based information to beach managers, legislators and more, visit www.asbpa.org.

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ABOUT ASBPA: Founded in 1926, the ASBPA promotes the integration of science, policies and actions that maintain, protect and enhance the coasts of America. For more information on ASBPA, go to www.asbpa.org, facebook or www.twitter.com/asbpa.