Recent developments surrounding President Biden’s proposed ban on natural gas raise significant concerns regarding the scientific foundation underpinning such a decision. A closer examination reveals a disturbing trend of expedited research and questionable methods, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the purported findings.
One of the key figures behind the push for a natural gas ban is Professor Robert Howarth, whose work has been instrumental in shaping the narrative around methane emissions. However, alarmingly, Howarth himself admitted to bypassing the standard peer-review process before publishing his findings. In a shocking admission, he stated that while he would have preferred peer review, he believed his findings were trustworthy and felt ethically compelled to enter the debate promptly.
This cavalier approach to scientific rigor is concerning, to say the least. It calls into question the reliability and credibility of the research upon which significant policy decisions are being based. The rush to participate in a critical debate should not come at the expense of scientific integrity.
Adding to the skepticism surrounding the validity of the research, the findings have undergone rapid evolution in the past six months, with little opportunity for thorough scrutiny. The paper was hastily promoted to prominent figures such as Bill McKibben in an opinion piece in The New Yorker, followed by its endorsement as “forthcoming research” by Senate Democrats a mere week later.
This pattern of rushed dissemination and political endorsement raises red flags about the integrity of the scientific process and the motives behind the proposed natural gas ban. It appears less like a measured response to environmental concerns and more like a politically motivated maneuver.
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Crazy.
Apparently, the research findings have rapidly evolved in the past 6 months — eschewing peer-review.
First, the paper was promoted to Bill McKibben in an opinion piece at New Yorker.
Then, a week later by Senate Democrats described as "a forthcoming research paper" pic.twitter.com/W8D8sg6pKu
— Ryan Maue (@RyanMaue) April 1, 2024