Revitalizing Climate Awareness: Scientists Relaunch Essential Website After Shutdown During Trump Era

Earlier this summer, climate.gov, a key resource for climate information, faced a tough setback. The Trump administration blocked access to the site and let go of its production team. While the website is still technically online, it has been significantly minimized by a new group at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Now, a dedicated team of former climate.gov members is working to revive the site’s valuable content through a new initiative. Led by ex-managing editor Rebecca Lindsey, the group aims to create a nonprofit organization called climate.us. This new platform will provide easy-to-understand climate science and offer services to help local governments manage climate-related challenges, like increased flooding.

Rebecca shared that many former employees are grappling with not just losing their jobs, but also their purpose. “We weren’t ready to let go of climate.gov,” she said.

In the weeks following their dismissal, Lindsey’s team has received some financial support and legal aid, helping them shape their vision. They’ve recognized a strong need for climate education that’s independent of government oversight. “People want to learn about climate change and natural climate,” Lindsey noted.

Excited about their fresh start, the team is exploring new ways to share information. “We can now use social media platforms like TikTok,” Lindsey said. This shift allows them to connect with a wider audience in fun and engaging ways.

To support their mission, they have launched a crowdfunding campaign to help secure long-term funding. Lindsey mentioned how community support has already made a difference—someone even donated their domain name.

Building this nonprofit from the ground up requires a shift in mindset. “We’re letting go of the 9-5 mentality,” said one team member. They are dedicated to keeping the spirit of climate.gov alive. “We want to be a cornerstone for climate literacy,” Lindsey stated.

This has been an emotional journey for the team. They feel a mix of hope and fear, with the challenge of not just reviving content but building a future for climate education. Lindsey shared, “What’s happening can feel overwhelming,” yet they are determined to do their part.

Although past content from climate.gov is still accessible, Lindsey feels strongly about the importance of this information. “Taxpayers funded this knowledge, and it shouldn’t be hidden,” she said. “It’s an abuse of government resources.”

According to a recent survey, nearly 70% of Americans express concern about climate change. This highlights the ongoing need for accessible climate science, no matter the political climate. As Lindsey’s team works diligently to bring this vision to life, their efforts aim to ensure that vital information remains available for everyone.

For more on climate science, check out resources from credible organizations like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

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