The air we breathe: the ocean produces over half of the world's oxygen and absorbs 50 times more carbon dioxide than our atmosphere. Climate regulation: covering 70% of the Earth's surface, the ocean transports heat from the equator to the poles, regulating our climate and weather patterns. Transportation: 76% of all U.S. trade involves some form of marine transportation. Recreation: From fishing to boating to kayaking and whale watching, the ocean provides us with many unique activities. Economic benefits: the U.S. ocean economy produces $282 billion in goods and services and ocean-dependent businesses employ almost three million people. Food: the ocean provides more than just seafood; ingredients from the sea are found in surprising foods such as peanut butter and soymilk. Medicine: many medicinal products come from the ocean, including ingredients that help fight cancer, athritis, Alzheimer's disease, and heart disease. Download this graphic and share it!
What better way to celebrate the ocean than with an oceanography merit badge!
Simple things you can do to help protect and conserve our nation's fragile estuaries.
Explore NOAA ocean data including sea surface temperature, ocean heat content, and bathymetry.
Heading out to see whales, dolphins, or corals? Practice proper ocean etiquette!
Get ocean and coastal info on the go with NOAA apps and mobile-friendly sites.
Heading out to sea? NOAA Offers Free Nautical Products for Fun and Safety.
What do you know about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch? Our audio podcast has the details.