Closure of USAID Weakens Global Environmental Goals and Conservation Programs
A report prepared by former USAID officials reveals that the agency's dissolution has globally increased deforestation and created a major funding gap.
Following the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) by the Trump administration, a new report has revealed a massive funding shortfall in global environmental and climate programs, alongside an acceleration in deforestation.
USAID's Role in the Global Environment
Before the agency was shut down, it was one of the world's largest funders, providing approximately $1 billion annually to environmental programs such as conservation and climate resilience.
Findings of the New Report
Published by former senior USAID employees Hadas Kushnir and Monica Bansal, the report shows that few funders have been able to fill this gap, leading to a decline in environmental standards.
International Repercussions
Conducted through interviews with 150 people across five countries, the research revealed that illegal mining and coca production have increased in Peru's Amazon region, while security and counter-terrorism efforts have weakened in Kenya.
Administration's Defense and Expert Opinions
While Trump administration officials defended the agency's closure as a measure to prevent waste, independent experts state that USAID programs were delivering results and ensuring transparency in public data.