On Tuesday, November 14th, 2023, the fifth U.S. National Climate Assessment was released. According to usda.gov, the assessment provides information about “climate change risks, impacts, and responses in the US,” and was mandated by the US Congress in the Global Change Research Act of 1990. This fifth edition is the first time the document has put more focus on environmental injustice and the effects on lower-income families and unequal treatment upon those of color.
Along with the release, it was announced that the administration was allowing for a six-billion dollar investment for programs that reduce flood risks and better advance movements for environmental justice.
Previous assessments by former President Barack Obama in 2014 and former President Donald Trump mentioned social, climate and environmental issues a shockingly low amount compared to President Biden. The fifth National Climate Assessment discussed these issues thoroughly and dedicated entire sections to it.
This year’s climate assessment addresses climate change impacts throughout the entire system of food production, specifically focusing on climate change from meat production and monoculture crops.
The report can be read in its entirety at https://nca2023.globalchange.gov/.