‘These numbers represent a diminution of scientific contributions from the fewer, remaining EPA scientists,’ stated Kyla Bennett, a scientist and attorney who is Peer’s science policy director and formerly worked at the EPA. ‘It is as if EPA is seeking to reduce the sum total of human knowledge.’
Bennett described the trend as a ‘retreat from published research’ and expressed concern that it will have ‘a self-reinforcing effect’ that could translate to fewer young scientists joining the EPA, adding that scientific careers rely upon published work. ‘The net result is that the scientific contribution of EPA to a greater understanding of what affects human health and the environment will be diminished,’ she said.