Experts Warn: Climate Programs May Struggle for Support and Attention During Trump’s Administration

Panelists at the 2025 Society of Environmental Journalists conference shared their concerns about climate change and the state of environmental journalism. They expressed a worry about the current political landscape, feeling that support for climate initiatives is wavering.

Nada Wolff Culver, a former deputy director at the Bureau of Land Management, noted that the phrase “climate change” is often downplayed depending on which party is in power. She stated, “There’s been a lot of undoing,” referring to recent policy reversals.

Anne Hedges, executive director of the Montana Environmental Information Center, highlighted a lack of federal support for climate issues. “We won’t have the same backing as before,” she said, reinforcing the uncertainty regarding judicial support for environmental protections.

Lena Gonzalez, the majority leader of the California State Senate, talked about the challenges of securing FEMA relief after recent wildfires. She described the process as “like a chess game,” emphasizing how complex it can be to pass environmentally focused legislation. Her Senate Bill 1137, which created safe zones around homes and schools, faced significant hurdles in implementation.

Emily Fischer, an atmospheric scientist at Colorado State University, passionately voiced her worries about the future. As a mother of two, she emphasized, “We cannot afford to lose four years of progress.” She pointed out that scientific facts remain constant despite political changes. “The science is the same,” she affirmed.

Throughout the discussion, it became clear that for every advancement in climate action, there’s often a setback. Hedges summed it up humorously: “For every action, there’s an equal and opposite reaction.” This reflects the ongoing battle in balancing policy changes with the urgent need for climate solutions.

Panelists also mentioned the potential for collaboration even amidst differing views. Culver suggested that researchers and journalists could work with the current administration to influence climate policies positively.

As we face increasing environmental challenges, the insights from these experts remind us of the importance of ongoing dialogue and advocacy. The urgency of the climate crisis calls for a united effort from individuals, communities, and governments alike.

For more information, you can visit the Natural Resources Defense Council for resources and updates on climate change policies and impacts.

Coverage of the Society of Environmental Journalists conference is supported by various educational institutions and charitable trusts, including Arizona State University and the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.

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