85+ Environmental Scientists Warn: US Government’s New Climate Report is Misleading—Here’s What You Need to Know

More than 85 climate scientists recently challenged a report from the Department of Energy (DOE) that downplays climate risks. They argue that the report misrepresents scientific research and spreads uncertainty that could misguide policymakers. The stakes are significant because the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering retracting the 2009 endangerment finding, which could greatly impact vehicle and industrial regulations.

The DOE’s report, written by a small group of authors known for their controversial views, was presented as a synthesis for decision-makers. Shortly after its release, the EPA proposed rescinding the endangerment finding, using the DOE study as justification. This connection turned a scientific debate into an urgent regulatory issue.

Led by climate expert Andrew Dessler from Texas A&M University, the group of reviewers aimed to highlight discrepancies between the DOE report and the broader peer-reviewed literature. Their response, exceeding 400 pages, quickly addressed potential errors that could be solidified if left unchecked. Dessler criticized the report, saying it “makes a mockery of science.” The reviewers pointed out selective citations, faulty statistics, and a lack of recent data on sea level rise and extreme weather events.

The American Meteorological Society (AMS) also issued a statement criticizing the DOE report. They noted five major flaws, emphasizing that a non-representative group of authors cannot adequately assess the overwhelming body of climate evidence. They highlighted issues like cherry-picking data and uninformed extrapolations. Major evaluations, such as those from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the National Climate Assessment, combine extensive research to reach consensus, avoiding narrow perspectives.

Recent statistics underline the urgency of this debate. According to a 2022 NOAA report, sea levels along the U.S. coast are projected to rise by about 10 to 12 inches by 2050, which will increase the likelihood of coastal flooding. These projections are based on extensive data, including tide gauges and satellite measurements, as well as our understanding of climate-related ice melting.

A 2020 peer-reviewed study found that climate models have accurately predicted global temperature trends over the decades. This challenges claims that these models exaggerate warming, showing that when tested against historical emissions, they hold up well. The reliability of climate science is based on accurate measurements, not selective statistics.

The EPA’s potential rollback of climate regulations could have substantial implications for health and infrastructure. Decisions around public safety, especially regarding heat, rainfall, and sea level rise, depend on accurate scientific insight. Scientists argue that while certainty isn’t always possible, decisions should be based on valid data and methods to ensure reliable outcomes.

In these discussions, insights from a variety of experts and organizations emphasize the consensus on climate change and the urgent need for data-informed policies. Understanding the science behind climate change is crucial for anyone looking to engage in this critical conversation.



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