March 11th, 2025
Statement of Solidarity
The US Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (USAPECS) stands in unwavering solidarity with the broader scientific and research communities in response to the recent federal funding cuts for climate change research and the unfortunate firing of NOAA federal agents. These actions threaten not only the integrity of polar research but also undermine the crucial work being done to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change, particularly in the polar regions which are among the most vulnerable to these changes.
We are deeply concerned that the reduction in funding for climate change research will hinder our ability to monitor and address the ongoing impacts of climate change in the Arctic and Antarctic. These regions are experiencing some of the most profound environmental shifts, and the scientific community plays a critical role in documenting, understanding, and developing solutions to these challenges. The loss of funding is a setback not only for polar science but also for global efforts to combat the climate crisis.
Moreover, the diversity and inclusivity of the scientific community are paramount to the progress of polar science. We recognize that historically, underrepresented groups in science have faced significant barriers to participation and advancement. At USAPECS, we believe that improving diversity in the workforce is essential to fostering innovation, creating a more equitable research environment, and ensuring that the perspectives of all communities are represented in addressing global challenges like climate change. Any steps that reduce support for diversity initiatives undermine these efforts and threaten the development of a more inclusive research community.
We also express our support for the fired NOAA federal agents who have worked tirelessly to advance critical research and policy on climate change. These professionals played an essential role in ensuring that science-based decisions guide national and global environmental policies. Their unjust dismissal is a direct threat to the integrity of public service science, and we call for their reinstatement. The work of NOAA and its staff is indispensable to safeguarding our planet’s future, and we stand with them in their pursuit of scientific truth and responsible action.
USAPECS calls upon policymakers to restore funding for climate change research and to prioritize efforts to improve the representation and inclusion of marginalized communities in polar science. We must strengthen, not weaken, the scientific institutions that work to protect the future of our planet and the integrity of our global research communities. Now more than ever, the pursuit of knowledge and the protection of our planet depend on the collective commitment of all scientists, policymakers, and citizens to act with urgency, equity, and solidarity.
In solidarity,
The US Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (USAPECS)
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