Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) is a research facility operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the United States Department of Commerce. It is dedicated to the advancement of scientific knowledge and understanding of the world's oceans, particularly the Pacific Ocean, and the marine environment.
PMEL is focused on studying various aspects of the marine ecosystem, including oceanographic and atmospheric dynamics, climate variability, and the impacts of human activities on marine ecosystems. The laboratory conducts research in a wide range of disciplines, including physical, biological, and chemical oceanography, as well as meteorology and climate science.
The primary mission of the PMEL is to collect and analyze data to improve predictions of climate change, variability, and their impacts on marine ecosystems. The laboratory uses a combination of satellite technology, oceanographic instrumentation, and computer models to study ocean currents, temperature, salinity, and other environmental parameters.
Additionally, PMEL operates and maintains a network of buoys, ships, and underwater observatories to observe and monitor the ocean environment. These observational platforms provide valuable long-term data sets that are essential for understanding changing patterns in the ocean and atmospheric systems.
The research conducted at PMEL strives to enhance our understanding of the complex interactions between the ocean, atmosphere, and climate system. This knowledge is crucial for the development of sustainable management practices, resource conservation, and mitigation of climate change impacts on the marine environment.
