Amidst the interruptions caused by the Trump administration, scientists strive to bring to light the National Nature Assessment, which evaluates America’s natural resources.
Trump's Edict Halts Key Environmental Report: Experts Push for Independent Release
Trump's Edict Halts Key Environmental Report: Experts Push for Independent Release
After an executive order from Trump ended a crucial environmental study, experts now work to revive and publish it independently.
The National Nature Assessment, a comprehensive study assessing the health of America's lands, waters, and wildlife, was abruptly halted by President Trump’s executive order shortly before its completion. The draft had been a collaborative effort by over 150 scientists and specialists, who dedicated countless hours to its development.
On January 30, Phil Levin, the project director and an environmental scientist, communicated to his team that their work was being discontinued due to the administration's directive. However, he also emphasized the significance of their findings in an alternative message, stating, “This work is too important to die,” highlighting the urgency and relevance of the assessment for the country’s ecological future.
Initially initiated under the Biden administration, the National Nature Assessment sought to provide a valuable gauge of environmental conditions across the U.S., exploring the interrelationships of ecosystems and human wellbeing. Despite the government's withdrawal from the project, key contributors are determined to see it through and are strategizing on how to finalize and release the report independently.
According to leading authors, there exists a remarkable consensus among the experts involved in the project that the work must continue. Howard Frumkin, a professor emeritus at the University of Washington, noted that the study is crucial for understanding how shifts in nature can directly impact human health and the environment. As the scientists regroup, they are keen on ensuring that the nation receives the insights and data originally intended, underscoring a vital conversation about the country’s ecological challenges and requirements moving forward.
On January 30, Phil Levin, the project director and an environmental scientist, communicated to his team that their work was being discontinued due to the administration's directive. However, he also emphasized the significance of their findings in an alternative message, stating, “This work is too important to die,” highlighting the urgency and relevance of the assessment for the country’s ecological future.
Initially initiated under the Biden administration, the National Nature Assessment sought to provide a valuable gauge of environmental conditions across the U.S., exploring the interrelationships of ecosystems and human wellbeing. Despite the government's withdrawal from the project, key contributors are determined to see it through and are strategizing on how to finalize and release the report independently.
According to leading authors, there exists a remarkable consensus among the experts involved in the project that the work must continue. Howard Frumkin, a professor emeritus at the University of Washington, noted that the study is crucial for understanding how shifts in nature can directly impact human health and the environment. As the scientists regroup, they are keen on ensuring that the nation receives the insights and data originally intended, underscoring a vital conversation about the country’s ecological challenges and requirements moving forward.
