Making science second nature.
A project of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
The Institute for Science & Policy is a catalyst for thoughtful dialogue, working toward solutions on society’s greatest challenges with scientific thinking, empathy, and inclusivity.
Our Story
Podcast Season 3 Premieres September 27
From our first breath to our last exhale, air is a vital shared resource. But what's really in the air we breathe? Clearing the Air: The Hazy Future of Our Skies is an eight-episode series exploring the quality of our air, and its impact on our health, economy, and climate. Through in-depth interviews and storytelling, the series uncovers how communities around Colorado – and the world – are fighting to clean up our air. Listen to the trailer now and stay tuned for Episode 1 on September 27.
Listen to the Trailer
Science at the Edge: Reducing Polarization
Watch the full recording of the latest installment in the Science at the Edge series. What does political polarization mean in 2023? As we approach another national election cycle, are we really more divided than ever, or is the gap more about perceptions than fact? Our expert panel discusses the roots of our current divisiveness and new ideas for reducing polarization, from the role of media to interventions that work.
Watch now
New Guide: Roadmap to Better Decisions
From July through October 2022, a diverse group of local leaders, decision-makers, and community members came together to discuss the difficulties of developing solutions to managing water in the West. A key outcome of the convening is the Roadmap to Better Decisions, an 18-page guide that outlines the process taken to start having these difficult, yet essential conversations. This roadmap can be a guide for anyone who wants to change the way they work on difficult issues, no matter what context or problem is at hand.
Learn moreGo in depth.
COVID-19: Looking Back and Looking Forward
Now that we have reached the three-year mark of living with COVID-19 in the US, public health experts are reflecting on the past and the path forward. Our panel discusses long COVID, plus reviews what we’ve learned about the virus, what has changed, and what the future may hold.
Climate and our Economy
Climate change already affects large sectors of our economy, from infrastructure and property to public health and tourism. Many opportunities and creative ideas are being pursued by forward-thinking businesses, individuals, and governments. Speakers address the national, state, and local impacts of our changing climate and the benefits to jobs and the clean energy economy as we support a rapid energy transition.

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