Thursday, May 7, 2009

Federal budget increases for Earth, environment, and energy sciences



The Administration's federal budget request for Fiscal Year 2010 includes some hefty increases for the Earth, environmental, and energy sciences.

Science Insider lists some key programs:

USGS - 5.2% increase overall.

DOE - includes $280 million to set up 8 Energy Innovation Hubs, at $25 million per year, "which would each focus on one specific area, including solar fuels and nuclear energy."

National Science Foundation - $7.04 billion, an 8.5% jump The six research directorates would receive a 10% boost, to $5.73 billion.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - $100 million increase to $4.5 billion; includes a $12 million rise in competitive climate research, to $144 million.

EPA - science and technology increase of 6.6%