Above the din but in the fray: environmental scientists as effective advocates

Environmental policies and actions can be improved when environmental scientists engage in science‐based advocacy, by calling attention to relevant scientific information and ensuring that policies and their implementation are consistent with the best available science. There are many models for scientist‐advocates within and outside of advocacy organizations, and the roles they play may vary, depending on career stage. Here, we discuss the challenges and rewards for scientific staff in science‐based advocacy organizations, as well as for an academic working with an advocacy organization, as a consultant, collaborator, or member of an advisory board. We identify some best practices for science‐based advocacy and encourage the environmental science community to recognize the importance of the scientist‐advocate's role in strengthening environmental policy.