American Chemical Society issues its first paperless annual report

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12, 2009 — The 2008 American Chemical Society (ACS) Annual Report debuted today online, the first time that this key document has been published exclusively on the Web in a multimedia format.

“We’re excited to introduce this interactive and totally paperless online user experience,” said ACS Executive Director & CEO Madeleine Jacobs. “Like many other organizations, ACS has been working diligently towards a greener environment to reduce the use of paper in our everyday activities whenever possible. Electronic publication is environmentally friendly, richer in content through linking, and also saves substantial printing and mailing costs,” she said.

As users browse through the site (www.acs.org/annualreport), they will find all of the traditional features of an ACS annual report including the Society’s financial information, yearly highlights, and officers’ message.

In addition, ACS has launched a companion website to help ACS members and potential members navigate its various programs and resources. Called ACS Now More than Ever (www.acs.org/now), the website groups all of the Society’s programs and services into four categories: advance, collaborate, learn, and lead. Under the advance tab, for example, members can learn about ACS’s career programs, enroll in a short course, or find out about grants. Under the lead tab, members can find out how to join the ACS Legislative Action Network and contribute to educational programs like Project SEED, which provides high school students with a first-hand research experience. The website also features videos and real-time polls.

“Whether a person’s primary goal is to advance, collaborate, learn, or lead, ACS has the resources to help chemistry professionals succeed,” Jacobs said. “From career advice to educational opportunities to networking possibilities and beyond, this online overview will lead our members and potential members in the right direction.”

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