NOAA Unveils Science Plan to Monitor Ocean Carbon and Climate Change
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released a comprehensive Ocean Carbon Observing Science Plan covering fiscal years 2025 to 2035. The document highlights the critical role of ocean carbon monitoring in addressing climate change and supporting sustainable economic activities.
The ocean absorbs around 30% of human-driven CO₂ emissions and plays a key role in regulating global temperatures. However, increasing CO₂ levels contribute to ocean acidification, threatening marine ecosystems and economic sectors reliant on ocean health. In 2023, the world recorded its highest global annual average temperature in NOAA’s 174-year climate record, underscoring the urgency of improved ocean monitoring.
The 10-year Science Plan sets three primary goals:
- Observe Changes in the Ocean Carbon Cycle – Strengthening data collection on ocean carbon reservoirs, sources, and sinks.
- Enhance Ocean Carbon Data Management and Modeling – Improving data accuracy for climate predictions and policy-making.
- Expand Ocean Carbon Research and Community Engagement – Encouraging collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and industries.
The plan, developed by NOAA’s Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) division, emphasizes partnerships with government agencies, universities, and international organizations. It also highlights the need for better data accessibility, new monitoring technologies, and increased public awareness of the ocean’s role in mitigating climate change.
This initiative aligns with U.S. and international climate strategies, aiming to advance carbon cycle science, climate adaptation efforts, and the blue economy. By implementing this strategy, NOAA seeks to provide trusted, timely, and impactful ocean carbon data to help shape future climate action.
Disclaimer:
This content is sourced directly from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The information presented is part of NOAA’s Ocean Carbon Observing Science Plan, which covers fiscal years 2025 to 2035, and is intended to provide a detailed overview of their ongoing efforts in ocean carbon monitoring and climate change research. All views and opinions expressed are based on official NOAA documents and are intended for informational purposes only. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer directly to NOAA’s official website.