Tag Archives: pledge

EPA Leaders Pledge “Complete Transparency” on Geoengineering Amidst Ongoing Weather Conspiracy Theories

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The individual in green is R-Tenn. He mentioned that Sen. Tim Burchett is a co-sponsor of the initiative. The barchet is spreading equally perplexing assertions regarding severe weather.

A spokesman for Greene stated that lawmakers have been “discussing this matter for quite some time” and asserted that the bill is unrelated to the floods in Texas.

In a follow-up email, Greene communicated with Zeldin and expressed encouragement over his actions.

“This is an uncontrolled experiment conducted in the atmosphere without consent. It’s reckless, dangerous, and must be halted,” she stated in an email.

Burchett’s office did not immediately respond to inquiries for comment.

Following Milton and Helen, NOAA issued a factsheet in October 2024, aiming to debunk “weather modification claims” that emerged after two storms impacted Florida and North Carolina. The agency declared it would not “fund or engage in cloud seeding or any weather modification projects.”

Zeldin’s reference to more fringe theories regarding extreme weather coincides with the Trump administration’s reduction in climate change research funding and the removal of a website hosting the government’s climate assessment. President Donald Trump referred to climate change as a hoax, despite scientists uncovering stronger evidence linking the intensity and frequency of extreme weather to global warming.

Decades of research on weather modification have often fueled conspiracy theories.

From 1962 to 1982, NOAA participated in a project called Storm Fury, which aimed to investigate whether hurricane intensity could be altered. This study did not achieve its goals and was ultimately discontinued. NOAA has not undertaken similar research since. According to the factsheet.

Cloud seeding is a weather modification technology currently utilized. This practice has existed since the 1950s and typically involves dispersing silver iodide into clouds to extract moisture from the atmosphere, resulting in additional precipitation. Presently, cloud seeding programs are mainly focused on enhancing water supplies in western states. Companies are required to notify authorities before implementing such measures.

“Cloud seeding doesn’t generate water; it aids surrounding clouds in releasing 5-15% of their moisture. However, Texas was already experiencing 100% humidity, extreme moisture, and storms. The clouds didn’t require assistance,” Cappucci stated.

The proliferation of these claims coincides with escalating threats directed at meteorologists.

Geoengineering is a legitimate scientific field; however, assertions regarding its capability to control significant weather patterns and generate adverse weather are unfounded. Most geoengineering techniques remain theoretical and untested, with federal researchers making only tentative steps to evaluate their viability. Atmospheric scientists report no evidence of any large-scale programs.

Last year, in Alameda, California, a small test project in geoengineering, referred to as Marine Cloud Brightening, was disrupted by community protestors, despite researchers demonstrating its safety.

Psychotherapist Jonathan Alpert described how conspiracy theories tend to surge, particularly during moments of weather events that leave individuals feeling powerless.

“Conspiracy theories offer emotionally gratifying narratives. They restore a sense of control by framing phenomena as intentional actions by powerful entities rather than unpredictable chaotic events,” Alpert told NBC News. “In this context, believing ‘someone is doing this to us’ is more bearable than facing the idea that ‘no one is in charge.'”

While some interpret the EPA’s actions as a sign of transparency, others view it merely as a recent political maneuver to sidestep critical environmental issues.

“Some individuals question whether the bird is real or not. Will that become your next focus?” Congressman Don Beyer D-Va remarked in response to Zeldin’s comments on Thursday morning. He went on to comment on X regarding the EPA guidelines, “How much taxpayer money will be expended on this?”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Two Scientific Organizations Pledge Ongoing Efforts in U.S. Climate Assessments

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On Friday, a prominent scientific organization announced its plans to release a pivotal report on climate change for the nation. This endeavor had been sidelined by the Trump administration, which dismissed numerous scientists involved in the effort.

The American Geophysical Union and the American Meteorological Society indicated that authors could opt to publish works initially drafted for evaluation in their respective journals.

Brandon Jones, program director for the National Science Foundation, stated, “It is essential to protect and prepare our community, our neighbors, and our children from the escalating risks associated with climate change. This collaboration opens a vital pathway for researchers to unite and provide the necessary science to address global climate change solutions.”

The National Climate Assessment represents a thorough review of current climate science, examining the impacts of climate change on the nation and outlining potential adaptation and mitigation strategies. Five editions have been published since 2000, with the sixth edition expected to be released in early 2028.

The new initiative will not replace the federal reports required by Congress, according to a statement from the American Geophysical Union and the American Meteorological Association.

The White House has not responded to a request for comment. Following the rejection of the authors of the National Climate Assessment, known as NCA6, the notification they received mentioned that “the scope of the report is currently being reassessed in accordance with the Global Change Research Act of 1990.” This law instituted the US Global Change Research Program in April, subsequently resulting in staff and funding cuts by the administration.

It remains uncertain whether the administration will move forward with a revised assessment, try to bypass Congress and cancel it entirely, or take an alternative approach.

Jason West, an environmental scientist at the University of North Carolina and former lead author on the Air Quality chapter in a past assessment, stated, “This effort cannot substitute for NCA6, which goes through extensive public and government reviews. However, it allows the team of authors who have already started their work the chance to finalize and publish their findings.”

The report’s authors had been preparing a chapter for nearly a year, addressing subjects like climate model updates and urban heat adaptation.

Scientists highlighted the unique breadth, depth, and rigor of national climate assessments, noting that the government’s role in publishing has historically added credibility and reliability to these reports.

Researchers expressed disappointment at the abrupt cancellation of their volunteer positions. For many, the announcement from the Science Association was a positive indication that their work could proceed, just as the authors of the first National Natural Assessment advocated for the publication of their efforts.

Costa Samaras, a civil engineer at Carnegie Mellon University and leader of the Climate Mitigation chapter, remarked via email, “The AGU/AMS initiatives can sustain the momentum of climate science in the wake of recent setbacks. It serves as a reminder that science will persist.”

Source: www.nytimes.com

Google eliminates AI Pledge and DEI Goals from All Staff Meetings, US News Reports

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Google executives discussed the tech giant’s diversity initiative, announcing its sunset and the removal of the pledge to create artificial intelligence for weapons and surveillance during all-staff meetings. Former Head of Diversity, Melonie Parker, mentioned updates to the company’s diversity and inclusion training programs. Parker, now Vice Chairman of Googler Engagement, highlighted the impact of changing geopolitical dynamics on Google’s AI principles, emphasizing the importance of being part of societal conversations. Company executives addressed questions from employees, including concerns about the removal of AI construction bans for weapons and surveillance. Google CEO Sundar Pichai reiterated the company’s commitment to following legal guidelines while striving for a diverse workforce that mirrors its global user base.

Google’s recent shift away from diversity goals and employment targets for underrepresented groups aligns with industry trends influenced by government policies. The company’s decision to collaborate on defense contracts, including the provision of AI services to the Israeli Defense Forces, has sparked internal and external discussions. Employee questions addressed concerns about the removal of AI principles related to weapons and surveillance, prompting further examination of Google’s ethical standards and corporate values.

The connection between Google’s DEI program and AI initiatives has raised questions about the company’s direction and ethical considerations. Employee activism within Google has highlighted the complex balance between corporate interests and societal impacts. As Google navigates its role in technology development and defense contracting, internal conversations around AI ethics and transparency continue to shape the company’s decision-making processes.

Google’s use of AI to summarize and address employee queries reflects the company’s efforts to streamline communication and address concerns effectively. Employee questions range from ethical AI development to corporate transparency, highlighting the need for open dialogue within the organization. As Google grapples with evolving industry standards and societal expectations, ongoing discussions about AI ethics and diversity initiatives will shape its future trajectory.

Source: www.theguardian.com