Just months before completion, the National Nature Assessment was curbed by an executive order, prompting scientists to collaborate on publishing it independently to address pressing environmental issues.
Scientists Rally to Revive Critical National Nature Assessment Post-Trump Administration
Scientists Rally to Revive Critical National Nature Assessment Post-Trump Administration
Despite the abrupt halt ordered by the Trump administration, experts unite to push forward with a vital environmental study aimed at understanding America's ecological status and future.
The National Nature Assessment, a comprehensive evaluation of America's land, water, and wildlife, was nearly finalized when the Trump administration abruptly discontinued the study. The project, initiated during the Biden administration, had engaged over 150 scientists, who poured thousands of hours into its development. As the January 30 email from project leader Phil Levin noted the cessation, he also expressed a commitment to its significance, stating, "This work is too important to die."
In response, key experts from the assessment have begun strategizing ways to complete and publish their findings outside of governmental oversight. Howard Frumkin, a professor emeritus at the University of Washington and a leading author on the study, emphasized the collective agreement among experts: "There’s an amazingly unanimous broad consensus that we ought to carry on with the work."
The study aimed to assess the current state of natural resources in the U.S., anticipated future changes, and their implications for the populace. As scientists mobilize to continue their research independently, they highlight the urgent need for data on ecological health, reinforcing the idea that understanding these environmental dynamics is crucial for the welfare of the nation.
In response, key experts from the assessment have begun strategizing ways to complete and publish their findings outside of governmental oversight. Howard Frumkin, a professor emeritus at the University of Washington and a leading author on the study, emphasized the collective agreement among experts: "There’s an amazingly unanimous broad consensus that we ought to carry on with the work."
The study aimed to assess the current state of natural resources in the U.S., anticipated future changes, and their implications for the populace. As scientists mobilize to continue their research independently, they highlight the urgent need for data on ecological health, reinforcing the idea that understanding these environmental dynamics is crucial for the welfare of the nation.
