Political cuts under the Trump administration have severely impacted climate science and related research. Sally Johnson, an Earth scientist, reports a complete loss of direction in responding to climate change, termed the biggest threat to humanity. Federally funded agencies, including NASA and NOAA, face unprecedented funding cuts and staff layoffs. Many scientists express fears of losing a generation of talent and expertise, as they seek alternative employment outside the field. The current situation threatens the availability of crucial climate data and tools that support public safety amid increasing extreme weather events.
Our ability to respond to climate change, the biggest existential threat facing humanity, is totally adrift... The cuts have led to a 60% reduction in Johnson's team.
Unprecedented political interference at previously evidence-driven agencies jeopardizes the future of US industries and economic growth... Many said they had already had funding slashed or programs terminated.
A generation of scientific talent is also on the brink of being lost, threatening to derail research tackling the most pressing issues facing Americans and humanity.
We won't be able to afford to continue providing the free and quality tools and services to make our data stores searchable, viewable, usable, and accessible.
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