WASHINGTON, D.C. —  The cancellation of the U.S. National Nature Assessment, whose first order draft was in the process of being developed, highlights the threats facing science-based decision making and a concerning shift in how the new administration will approach nature and its vital role in human health, cultural traditions, and economic growth.

“The cancellation of the U.S. National Nature Assessment is disconcerting given the threats facing wildlife and people and the vital role nature should play in addressing the climate, biodiversity, and environmental justice crises,” said Diane Pataki, vice president for science and chief scientist at the National Wildlife Federation. “The authors of the U.S. National Nature Assessment and the former staff of the U.S. Global Change Research Program should proceed with writing and releasing the National Nature Assessment — even without federal support.”

“Nature has a critical role to play in addressing environmental injustices that have plagued frontline and fenceline communities for generations,” said Dr. Adrienne Hollis, a contributor to the assessment and vice president for environmental justice, climate and community revitalization at the National Wildlife Federation. “This U.S. National Nature Assessment, including the chapter I have worked on, affirms the role of communities in assessing and implementing nature-based solutions. This work is too urgent, and too essential to be set aside. I am committed to working with my colleagues to advance the U.S. National Nature Assessment and to finish what we started.”