The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa) has imposed new restrictions on its scientists, causing concern within the agency and among partners at European agencies. The restrictions include oversight on scientists' email and meetings with foreign nationals, documentation of all international engagements, and potential budget and staffing cuts. These measures are part of a larger effort by the Trump administration to reduce government spending and reprioritize federal efforts away from the climate crisis.
Key Points
New oversight on scientists' email and meetings with foreign nationals
Documentation required for all international engagements
Potential budget and staffing cuts
Concerns about impact on weather forecasts and global weather data access
Pros
Efforts to reduce government spending
Potential cost-saving measures
Cons
Concerns about hampering weather forecasts and key services
Fear of a crackdown on climate research
Worries about restrictions impacting global weather data access