Smart Net-Zero

February 25, 2025 | Science |

The United States has unexpectedly withdrawn key support for the IPCC’s seventh assessment report. NASA canceled its technical support unit contract, and U.S. officials, including NASA’s chief scientist, were denied permission to attend the planning meeting in Hangzhou, China. The move marks the first time the U.S. government has actively disrupted international climate science coordination. Scientists warn that this decision jeopardizes American leadership in climate mitigation research and could significantly undermine the assessment process. With limited U.S. representation, IPCC is now seeking new leadership from other developed countries. Uncertainty also surrounds future participation and funding for U.S. researchers, raising concerns over the country’s continued role in shaping global climate policy.