Element Hope Submits Comments on NOAA's R&D Plan

We recently submitted formal comments to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on its draft Research and Development Plan for 2020-2026.

While applauding many points related to research, collaboration, and the use of big data, we encouraged a greater focus on collaboration among the public, private, and nonprofit sectors in order to deliver greater results.

Additionally, we recommended a renewed focus on the economic benefits of ecological conservation. Coastal communities recognize that protecting the ocean and the animals living in it boosts industries such as fishing and tourism. Those communities deserve to be valued for the beauty in them. There are many opportunities to combine ecological and economic benefits, despite claims that a choice must be made.

We look forward to continuing our own research and development of data in collaboration with other organizations, companies, and government agencies with the ultimate goals of protecting species, cleaning up the ocean, and empowering communities.

You can access a partial copy of the comments and we thank you for continuing to learn about and support Element Hope's mission.

For media inquires regarding the comments or Element Hope's research projects and engagement with NOAA, please email kyle.rosenthal@elementhope.org.

###