The Trump administration’s decision to disband hundreds of scientists and experts working on the National Climate Assessment has immediate implications for Texas. This report is crucial for Houston’s planning against extreme weather events like hurricanes. Over 400 volunteer scientists nationwide, including at least four in Texas, were dismissed from their roles via email. Texas researchers from institutions like the University of Texas system and Texas Tech University were looking forward to contributing to this assessment, which is used by various entities, from local governments to agricultural businesses.
Katharine Hayhoe, a Texas-based author of a previous assessment, emphasized its importance as a peer-reviewed study quantifying climate change impacts. This action followed NASA’s cancellation of its support contract and the dismissal of staff from the U.S. Global Change Research Program.
The National Climate Assessment, updated periodically by 15 government agencies and external researchers as mandated by a 1990 law, informs Houston’s hazard assessments and preparedness plans, as stated by Mel Bartis of the city’s Office of Emergency Management. The 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan referenced this assessment.
Sascha Petersen, a Texas-based expert released from his role, expressed disappointment but hopes the federal government will continue the assessment. He noted the significant effort required for such a comprehensive report and the necessity of federal support. Petersen, a contributor to previous assessments, would have led the Southern Great Plains region’s section. Groups and agencies rely on these assessments for planning against climate impacts.
Jen Duggan of the Environmental Integrity Project stated that dismissing scientists does not negate the reality of climate change. The next report, initially expected between late 2027 and early 2028, now faces uncertainty. Luke Metzger of Environment Texas warned of the dangers of abandoning the report amid increasingly severe weather.
