Ocean Exploration in Support of the Blue Economy

The United States supports a vast “Blue Economy” that employs millions of Americans and is valued at hundreds of billions of dollars. Ocean industries that contribute to the Blue Economy include fisheries, energy (oil and gas, offshore wind, waves, and tides), critical minerals mining, recreation and tourism, and marine transportation. Because it is impossible to manage for sustainable use of ocean resources without knowing what lies below the ocean’s surface, ocean observations are needed to inventory available resources, ensure an efficient permitting process, and monitor impacts of extraction and use. Innovation is required to support Blue Economy industries for maximum sustainable benefit. NOAA’s Office of Ocean Exploration and Research addresses multiple Blue Economy science needs by coordinating exploration efforts, such as mapping and inventorying resources, with NOAA, federal, and non-federal partners. Ocean exploration advances the Blue Economy by: (1) Informing traditional and renewable energy siting, (2) Evaluating availability of critical minerals resources, (3) Discovering new species with biopharmaceutical/biotechnology potential, (4) Assessing populations and habitats of managed marine species, (5) Driving innovation of new technologies, and (6) Inspiring and educating the next generation of STEM professionals. Ongoing and future OER-supported expeditions and projects will continue to advance efforts to support the sustainable development of the vast wealth contained within and beneath US waters.