Response to Trump's Dismissal: New Climate Research Initiative

Following the dismissal of numerous scientists by the Trump administration—scientists who traditionally contribute to the United States' comprehensive quadrennial climate impact report—two scientific organizations have devised a strategy to ensure this research doesn't go unnoticed.

The American Geophysical Union (AGU) and the American Meteorological Society (AMS), respected authorities in earth, space, and atmospheric sciences, are mobilizing to gather and publish a new set of climate studies. They have extended an invitation to researchers in the field of climate science to submit papers for a unique compilation.

While this initiative is not intended to replace the National Climate Assessment, it serves to augment it due to concerns that the dismissal of so many experts could dilute future assessments. Despite its statutory mandate, the Trump administration is reassessing the scope of the upcoming report.

The Importance of Climate Documentation

The National Climate Assessment, issued every four years, is pivotal for summarizing climate change effects across the U.S. It guides federal, state, and local bodies as well as businesses in preparing for, adapting to, and mitigating the repercussions of climate changes.

David Stensrud, head of the American Meteorological Society, commended this assessment for being an exhaustive and methodical synthesis of the latest climate science. It's essential, he noted, for decision-makers at all levels, emphasizing the necessity to bolster and broaden scientific collaboration for the benefit of the nation and the world.

A Call for Scientific Contributions

The two science organizations are crafting a series of papers from a variety of scholarly journals, focused specifically on climate change in the United States. According to Brandon Jones, president of the American Geophysical Union, this initiative aims to provide an important avenue for scientists to collaborate and contribute essential knowledge to global climate solutions.

Scientists who were previously engaged in drafting the sixth National Climate Assessment are encouraged to participate in this new project, alongside any other researchers interested in contributing.

Timeline and Process

Although a timeline for the release of this collection remains undetermined, the AGU and AMS anticipate that compiling and reviewing the submissions could span several months or years. Each contribution must pass a stringent peer-review process.

Leading Climate Coverage

Tracy J. Wholf, a senior coordinating producer focused on climate and environmental topics for CBS News, oversees relevant reporting from their New York base.