Trump Administration Plans to Dismantle Major Climate Research Center

The Trump administration has announced plans to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado. This action targets one of the largest federal climate research institutions in the United States, raising concerns about the future of climate science.

Announcement Details

Russ Vought, director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, shared the news via social media. He described NCAR as a major source of what he termed “climate alarmism.” Vought confirmed that the National Science Foundation would oversee this dismantling effort. A review is currently underway to assess vital activities, including weather research, which may be relocated elsewhere.

The Impact of Dismantling NCAR

The potential breakup of NCAR comes at a critical time. Global leaders have emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change. The center is vital for climate and weather research, contributing to understanding severe weather events and atmospheric dynamics.

Expert Reactions

• Many scientists voiced opposition to the move, believing it would severely hinder scientific progress.
• Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at UCLA, characterized the dismantling as a “terrible blow” to American science.
• Katharine Hayhoe from The Nature Conservancy likened the action to “taking a sledgehammer” to essential scientific knowledge.

Responses from Colorado Officials

Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed concern, stating that the state has not received detailed information about the plan. He emphasized NCAR’s significance in delivering critical data on weather events and climate change. Polis called any cuts an attack on scientific progress, which could harm the U.S.’s competitive edge in global scientific research.

Historical Significance of NCAR

Established in 1960, NCAR has played a crucial role in atmospheric research. The center supports advancements in weather prediction, air quality modeling, and studies on natural disasters.

Historical Contributions and Recognitions

• In 1990, NCAR scientists contributed to the first assessment by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
• The IPCC received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for its efforts in advancing climate science.

Future Implications

The dismantling of NCAR raises fears about the future of climate research in the U.S. Critics argue that it undermines decades of progress and may have lasting impacts on global climate science communities. As the debate unfolds, many remain vigilant about the preservation of crucial scientific institutions like NCAR.