The impact of President Donald Trump’s policies on research in Puerto Rico is becoming increasingly evident, as federal funding opportunities crucial for projects like Professor Maritza Barreto Orta’s work on coastal erosion are disappearing. These policies limit funding for academic research on climate change, jeopardizing studies on sea level rise, coral bleaching, renewable energy, and more.
Puerto Rico, ranked sixth among countries most affected by the climate crisis, is facing significant challenges due to these policy changes. The withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement and international climate financing plans is exacerbating the situation. Studies on climate-related diseases like dengue and extreme weather events like hurricanes are also at risk.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) have begun mass cancellations of research grants that do not align with the agency’s priorities, targeting studies focused on environmental justice, climate change, and other important issues. Puerto Rico currently has 107 active NIH-funded grants totaling $78.5 million, with 85% led by University of Puerto Rico scientists.
The Coastal Research and Planning Institute (CoRePI), led by Barreto Orta, is facing challenges in securing funding to continue its important work on coastal erosion. With federal grants being the primary source of funding, the institute can only operate until April 2026 without new funding. Barreto Orta expressed concerns about the diminishing opportunities to seek external funding.
Other researchers in Puerto Rico, like professors Jorge Colón Rivera and José Hernández Ayala, are also facing uncertainties about the future of their projects due to funding restrictions. Colón Rivera’s research on renewable energy and Hernández Ayala’s work on the effects of heat waves on schools are at risk of being cut short without continued funding.
Overall, the uncertainty surrounding the future of climate crisis research in Puerto Rico is causing concern among researchers and posing challenges to finding solutions to natural disasters. Studies on renewable energy, agriculture, and planning are also facing obstacles, with researchers fearing that their projects may not continue without adequate funding support. The impact of these policy changes on scientific research in Puerto Rico is significant, and the need for continued funding and support for these crucial studies is more important than ever. President Donald Trump’s administration has issued an executive order that seeks to cancel all federal government diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This move has sparked concerns among researchers and scientists, especially those focused on climate change and environmental studies. The order, dated January 21, has raised fears of funding cuts and restrictions on research projects that address climate change and its impact.
One such affected institution is the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), which receives federal funds from various agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Science Foundation (NSF), United States Geological Survey (USGS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. The university’s ongoing research evaluating the environment from different academic perspectives relies heavily on these federal funds.
The interim president of UPR, Miguel Muñoz, expressed concerns about the potential closure of studies and instability issues on federal agency websites that have hindered researchers from submitting progress reports. Despite not receiving official notifications of closures, Muñoz acknowledged the challenges faced by researchers in accessing funding and submitting reports due to uncertainties caused by the executive order.
Researchers like Hernández Ayala, who focuses on climate change topics, fear that their studies might stagnate or face rejection due to the new policy. The uncertainty surrounding the future of research projects has left many researchers anxious about the fate of their work and the potential loss of critical studies addressing climate change and sustainability.
At the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus (RUM), Professor Héctor Tavárez faces the possibility of being unable to access funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for his studies on sustainable agricultural practices due to the use of terms like “climate change” that contradict the current public policy. Tavárez, along with other researchers, worries that restrictions on climate change-related research could lead to the loss of valuable agricultural studies and projects.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) has reassured researchers that their review criteria remain consistent despite the executive order, emphasizing the evaluation of proposals based on merit while adhering to federal standards. However, researchers remain concerned about the potential impact on their work and funding opportunities as a result of the policy changes.
The suspension of over $100 million in grants to the University of Maine by the USDA further highlights the ramifications of the executive order on research funding and the scientific community. The Trump administration’s stance on climate change and gender-related issues has created uncertainty and challenges for researchers across various disciplines, raising concerns about the future of scientific research and environmental studies in the United States. Tavárez Vargas, professor of the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology at the College of Agricultural Sciences at UPR Mayagüez campus.
Courtesy photo
The cancellation of funds and grants by federal agencies following the confrontation between Governor Janet Mills and former President Donald Trump has had a significant impact on various research projects and initiatives across the United States and Puerto Rico. These cancellations have not only affected the financial resources allocated to important scientific studies but have also raised concerns about the future of research in critical areas such as climate change, agriculture, and environmental justice.
One of the affected projects was a $10,000 grant intended for training Puerto Rican farmers in climate-smart agricultural practices at the Inter American University, Barranquitas Campus. The cancellation of this grant has hindered efforts to improve food production and implement environmentally sustainable farming practices on the island.
Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) canceled the evaluation of a $10 million proposal for an environmental justice project in Orocovis, which aimed to address issues such as river pollution and community resilience to natural disasters. The involvement of researchers from prominent universities like the University of Puerto Rico highlighted the significance of this project for the local community.
Trump’s policies against climate change have also impacted research initiatives at UPR in Humacao, where a funding request for a community climate justice network was put on hold by the U.S. Forest Service. The delay in funding approval has raised concerns about the future of projects aimed at addressing climate-related challenges in eastern Puerto Rico.
The cancellation of funds and grants has not only affected ongoing research projects but has also created a sense of uncertainty and self-censorship among researchers. The penalization of investigations related to climate change, race, diversity, and climate justice could discourage scientists from pursuing research in these critical areas, leading to a potential loss of innovation and creativity in the scientific community.
Moreover, the limitations imposed on federal agencies like NOAA, FEMA, and NASA could hamper vital data collection and research efforts related to climate change and environmental sustainability. The lack of funding and resources for scientific research could have far-reaching implications on our ability to understand and address pressing environmental challenges.
As researchers and scientists grapple with the repercussions of these funding cancellations, there is a growing concern about the future of scientific innovation and progress in the face of political pressures and budget cuts. The impact of these decisions on research projects, educational opportunities, and the overall scientific community underscores the importance of supporting and prioritizing scientific endeavors that aim to address critical issues facing our planet. Climate change continues to be a hot topic, not just in the scientific community but also in the political arena. With the Trump administration’s policies restricting the use of certain terms in research proposals, scientists are facing a dilemma on how to navigate this new landscape.
Professor Tavárez Vargas, from the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology at the College of Agricultural Sciences at UPR Mayagüez campus, is one of the many researchers grappling with this issue. He believes that adjusting the language of research proposals to avoid terms like “climate change” or “global warming” is necessary to secure federal funding and advance projects. Despite feeling uncomfortable about it, he sees it as a strategic move to ensure the approval of his proposals.
However, not all researchers share Tavárez’s viewpoint. Some argue that maintaining scientific integrity and honesty in their project proposals is paramount, even if it means risking funding opportunities. They believe that using terms like “climate change” is essential to accurately describe the environmental challenges we are facing.
The director of Sea Grant in Puerto Rico, Ruperto Chaparro, supports adjusting the language to sidestep funding limitations. He suggests focusing on the impacts of environmental issues, such as floods or heatwaves, rather than overarching concepts like the climate crisis. By playing the game and reframing the language in proposals, Chaparro believes researchers can still address important issues without compromising their principles.
On the other hand, Professor Pablo Méndez Lázaro, a principal investigator at the UPR Medical Sciences Campus, proposes using alternative terms like “climate oscillation” if using the concept of climate change becomes untenable for federal funding. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to studying the intersection of climate and health issues in Puerto Rico.
While some researchers, like Hernández Ayala and Barreto Orta, are determined to continue using the term climate change in their work, others, like Tavárez, are willing to make compromises to secure funding. As the debate rages on, scientists must grapple with finding a balance between securing funding and maintaining scientific integrity in a politically charged environment. The issue of censorship by the Trump administration on academia has raised concerns among professors at the University of Puerto Rico (UPR). There have been discussions on how to address this issue, with differing opinions on whether adjusting language in proposals to avoid funding cuts is acceptable. The interim UPR president has downplayed the issue, stating that changing proposal titles to comply with guidelines is not an ethical conflict.
However, Professor Rafael Méndez Tejeda emphasized the urgency for the university administration to take a clear stance on how Trump’s executive orders will impact research. He highlighted that climate change not only affects natural sciences but also has direct implications on society. Restrictions on research topics such as diversity, race, and inclusion could hinder academic progress in both natural and social sciences.
Barreto Orta expressed concerns that denial of climate change would increase under Trump’s policies, leading to setbacks in ecological awareness among citizens. Researchers fear that the limitations imposed by the administration could roll back the progress made in addressing climate change and coastal erosion threats.
Despite the lack of official communication from the university administration regarding handling research contrary to federal government orders, the interim president assured that guidelines from federal agencies are being followed. He emphasized the need for professors to adhere to these guidelines and suggested reaffirming instructions to address any misconceptions.
Professor Colón Rivera proposed seeking alternative funding sources, such as local government funds or support from the Science and Technology Trust, to ensure the continuation of research projects affected by federal restrictions. The uncertainty surrounding the adoption of Trump’s executive orders and the potential impact on research activities at UPR has raised concerns among the academic community.
In conclusion, the researchers stressed the importance of upholding academic freedom and scientific integrity in the face of censorship and funding challenges imposed by external policies. They urged the university administration to take a proactive stance in safeguarding research initiatives and promoting interdisciplinary collaborations to address pressing societal and environmental issues. The recent restrictions imposed by the Trump administration on federal funds for climate change research have had a significant impact on the research activities conducted by the Puerto Rico Science and Technology Trust. With the lack of response from the Trust regarding the effects of these restrictions on their research projects and funding flow, concerns are growing about the potential consequences of such limitations.
The elimination of studies funded by federal funds for climate change research adds to the financial challenges faced by the University of Puerto Rico (UPR). Since 2017, the UPR has already experienced a 48 percent cut in its operating budget due to measures implemented by the Fiscal Control Board (JCF). The potential loss of an additional $5.4 million in health research funds, if Trump’s proposal to limit funds for administrative and operational expenses of NIH grants is implemented, further exacerbates the financial strain on the university.
Professor Hernández Ayala, a new faculty member at UPR, expressed concerns about the impact of these funding restrictions on early-career professors like himself. He highlighted the need for the university to explore alternative sources of funding from the Puerto Rico government or other global and nonprofit entities to reduce dependence on federal funds.
In response to the financial challenges facing the UPR, efforts are being made to explore options for restructuring the university’s budget and operations. While there are calls for the reinstatement of the formula that previously allocated 9.6 percent of the Puerto Rican Government’s General Fund to the University, the current fiscal crisis in Puerto Rico makes this measure seem unfeasible.
Amidst these challenges, it is essential for the UPR to prioritize budget efficiency and effectiveness while considering ways to adapt to the changing funding landscape. Collaboration between the Centro de Periodismo Investigativo and Open Campus has shed light on the impact of federal funding restrictions on research activities in Puerto Rico, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to sustain research initiatives in the face of financial constraints. The Rise of Veganism: A Social and Environmental Revolution
In recent years, veganism has experienced a dramatic rise in popularity, with more and more people choosing to adopt a plant-based diet for various reasons. This shift towards veganism is not just a passing trend, but rather a social and environmental revolution that is shaping the way we think about food, sustainability, and animal rights.
One of the primary reasons for the rise of veganism is a growing awareness of the environmental impact of animal agriculture. According to the United Nations, the meat and dairy industries are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By choosing to go vegan, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and help combat climate change.
In addition to the environmental benefits, many people are turning to veganism for health reasons. Research has shown that a plant-based diet can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. By eliminating animal products from their diet, individuals can also reduce their intake of saturated fats and cholesterol, leading to improved overall health and well-being.
Another driving force behind the rise of veganism is animal welfare. The factory farming industry is known for its cruel and inhumane treatment of animals, with many animals being confined to small, crowded spaces and subjected to painful procedures. By choosing to go vegan, individuals can take a stand against animal cruelty and support more ethical and sustainable farming practices.
The rise of veganism has also been fueled by the growing availability of plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy products. From plant-based burgers to dairy-free ice cream, there are now more options than ever for those looking to make the switch to a vegan diet. This increased accessibility has made it easier for people to embrace veganism and incorporate more plant-based foods into their daily lives.
As veganism continues to gain momentum, it is clear that this movement is more than just a fad – it is a powerful force for positive change. By choosing to go vegan, individuals can make a meaningful impact on the environment, their health, and the well-being of animals. Whether motivated by ethical, health, or environmental concerns, more and more people are embracing veganism as a way to create a more sustainable and compassionate world. The world of technology is constantly evolving, with new advancements and innovations being made every day. One of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). AI is a branch of computer science that aims to create machines that can think, learn, and make decisions like humans.
One of the key areas where AI has been making a significant impact is in the field of robotics. Robots powered by AI have the potential to revolutionize industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. These robots can perform tasks that were previously only possible for humans, and they can do so with greater efficiency and accuracy.
In the manufacturing sector, AI-powered robots are being used to automate repetitive tasks such as assembly and packaging. This not only increases productivity but also improves the quality of the products being produced. Robots can work around the clock without getting tired or making mistakes, leading to faster production times and lower costs.
In the healthcare industry, AI-powered robots are being used to assist doctors and nurses in a variety of ways. For example, robots can be programmed to perform surgeries with greater precision than human hands. They can also be used to deliver medications to patients or assist in physical therapy exercises. These robots can help reduce the workload on healthcare staff and improve patient outcomes.
In the transportation sector, AI-powered robots are being used to drive cars, trucks, and even drones. These autonomous vehicles can navigate through traffic, avoid obstacles, and make split-second decisions to ensure the safety of passengers and cargo. Autonomous vehicles have the potential to revolutionize the way we travel and transport goods, making transportation more efficient and environmentally friendly.
While the rise of AI-powered robots presents many exciting opportunities, it also raises concerns about the impact on the workforce. As robots become more capable and cost-effective, they may replace human workers in many industries, leading to job displacement and economic upheaval. It is crucial for policymakers and industry leaders to address these challenges and ensure that the benefits of AI are shared equitably.
Overall, the rise of AI-powered robots is a game-changer for industries around the world. These robots have the potential to increase efficiency, improve quality, and revolutionize the way we work and live. As we continue to advance in the field of AI, we can expect to see even more exciting innovations in robotics that will shape the future of technology and society.
