On May 1, 2025, the Trump administration notified almost 400 authors via email that their contributions to the nation's key climate report were no longer required, citing a review of the report's scope. The National Climate Assessment, which has been published five times since 2000, provides crucial insights on climate change's impacts on the United States and strategies for adapting to and mitigating its effects. The sixth assessment was slated for release in early 2028.
Brandon Jones, president of the American Geophysical Union, emphasized the importance of the ongoing work in his statement, stating, “It’s our duty to ensure that our communities are equipped to handle the escalating risks posed by climate change.” In a coordinated effort, the two scientific organizations aim to generate a collaborative platform for researchers to contribute valuable science that addresses the pressing challenges of climate change.
While the federal government's report, mandated by Congress, remains in flux, the independent publication by these scientific groups will serve as a critical resource. When the authors were dismissed, the email they received suggested that the report's scope was being reevaluated in light of the Global Change Research Act of 1990—a framework under which the administration has made significant staffing and funding cuts in April.
As the situation progresses, the White House has yet to provide further comment on the dismissal or the plans announced by the scientific organizations.
Brandon Jones, president of the American Geophysical Union, emphasized the importance of the ongoing work in his statement, stating, “It’s our duty to ensure that our communities are equipped to handle the escalating risks posed by climate change.” In a coordinated effort, the two scientific organizations aim to generate a collaborative platform for researchers to contribute valuable science that addresses the pressing challenges of climate change.
While the federal government's report, mandated by Congress, remains in flux, the independent publication by these scientific groups will serve as a critical resource. When the authors were dismissed, the email they received suggested that the report's scope was being reevaluated in light of the Global Change Research Act of 1990—a framework under which the administration has made significant staffing and funding cuts in April.
As the situation progresses, the White House has yet to provide further comment on the dismissal or the plans announced by the scientific organizations.
