The Trump administration has announced plans to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, Colorado, citing concerns about “climate alarmism.” This move has sparked opposition from scientists, lawmakers, and experts who warn of the detrimental impact it could have on climate research and weather forecasting.
Established in 1960, NCAR has been a leading institution in climate research and education, funded by the federal government. However, White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought took to social media to announce the decision to break up NCAR, stating that any operations deemed vital, such as weather research, will be relocated to another entity or location.
Vought argued that NCAR is one of the largest sources of climate alarmism in the country, fueling skepticism about the institution’s scientific integrity and objectivity. The plan to dismantle NCAR was first reported by USA Today, with immediate actions set to begin in the near future.
Kevin Trenberth, a distinguished NCAR scholar, expressed concerns about the significant loss of scientific research that would result from breaking up the laboratory. Trenberth emphasized the critical role NCAR plays in advancing climate science discoveries and the implications of its dismantling on the scientific community.
Antonio Busalacchi, the president of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research overseeing NCAR, echoed Trenberth’s sentiments, warning that any plans to dismantle the institution would impede the nation’s ability to predict, prepare for, and respond to severe weather events and natural disasters. The potential consequences of this decision on public safety and scientific progress are alarming.
Democratic Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed dismay at the lack of communication from White House officials regarding the plans to dismantle NCAR. Polis highlighted the essential role NCAR plays in providing data on severe weather events to protect lives and property, underscoring the potential risks to public safety and the nation’s competitiveness in scientific research.
The Trump administration’s move to dismantle NCAR is part of a broader effort to roll back clean energy and climate initiatives established under the previous administration. President Trump has been a vocal critic of climate change, dismissing it as a hoax and undermining efforts to address the global environmental crisis.
The decision to dismantle NCAR has raised concerns among scientists, policymakers, and environmental advocates who fear the repercussions of weakening climate research and weather forecasting capabilities. The future of climate science in the United States hangs in the balance as the administration moves forward with its controversial plan to dismantle a key institution in the fight against climate change.
