For example, increases in global temperatures in recent decades have followed rising atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, but it is still unclear whether or to what extent manmade emissions are the cause. The relative strength or weakness of available information to support conclusions, conditions where a conclusion may not apply, and alternative interpretations for trends seen in the data should be recognized and discussed. Sound science is an important factor in setting policy, as decisions affecting many people clearly should be based on accurate technical information. However, science is by no means the only factor that should be considered in setting most public policies. Social, economic, legal, or political factors are also important, and any of these factors might ultimately determine how a given issue is managed.
Science helps to inform decisions, as do cost analyses, legal reviews, and town meetings.
Science does not dictate how public-policy decisions should be made. In order to maintain the credibility of sound science as a decision-support tool, policy decisions should clearly communicate the body of technical information that was considered, the manner in which the information was interpreted in light of the decision, and other factors that may have been considered. Policy-makers applying scientific findings to a given issue or decision are responsible for ensuring that the data are accurate, relevant, and complete. Statements of absolute certainty Proof in science is rarely absolute but more often is based on evidence available at the time. Terms such as always, only, or never are rarely used by conscientious communicators.