EPA Researchers Directed to Cease Publication Efforts

Scientists at the Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Water have been instructed by senior political figures to pause their work on academic papers. These documents were poised for public release but must undergo a newly imposed review procedure. The order was delivered to personnel during a recent town hall meeting. Publications that have reached the proof stage in their respective journals, however, are not subject to this interruption. The Office of Water’s responsibilities include safeguarding potable water quality.

This development marks yet another alteration under the Trump administration within the EPA and further exacerbates public health apprehensions. Previously, the agency signalled its intentions to dilute regulations on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly called 'forever chemicals.' These regulations had been established under the Biden administration, but now only the limitations for PFOA and PFOS, the most prevalent types, will remain. In a separate move, July saw significant downsizing in EPA staffing with the closure of the research division. Furthermore, there were attempts to retract specific greenhouse gas emissions regulations, culminating in a proposal to dismantle the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program that mandates emission disclosures by large-scale polluters.

Uncertainty Surrounds New Review Protocol

Following the imposition of these latest directives, staff members at the Office of Water conveyed their lack of information concerning justifications for the halt to scientific publications. No explanation regarding the nature or criteria of the new review procedure has been disseminated. One researcher opined to the media that halting these projects could potentially disregard millions in research investments.