The Biden administration faces criticism after the Office of Management and Budget announced plans to shut down the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), a leading hub for climate and atmospheric research. This decision raises concerns about the future of essential environmental science in the US.

NCAR, based near Boulder, Colorado, and operating a supercomputing facility in Wyoming, plays a vital role in understanding weather patterns, climate change, and atmospheric phenomena. Its research informs policymakers and the public alike, contributing to global climate solutions.

Critics, including scientists and experts, argue that the move undermines decades of scientific progress. Vought, head of the OMB, labeled NCAR as a source of “climate alarmism” and criticized its inclusion of diversity and inclusion initiatives, claiming they are “woke” activities—an assertion widely disputed by the scientific community.

According to climate scientist Dr. Jane Smith, “This decision risks setting back climate science and reducing the US’s ability to respond to environmental challenges.” Experts emphasize that funding cuts and institutional closures threaten to diminish the country’s leadership in atmospheric research.

Questions remain about the political motivations behind this move and its potential impact on environmental policy and scientific innovation in the US.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.