The History and Evolution of PMEL: Purposeful Research that Impacts Environmental Policy

The Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) conducts global and regional oceanographic research in support of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) three mission areas: (1) understanding and predicting changes in climate, weather, oceans, and coasts; (2) sharing that knowledge with others; and (3) conserving and managing coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. Since its establishment in 1973, PMEL’s work has ranged from pole to pole and across the global ocean. The lab’s research has examined ocean structure and function in the physical, chemical, and biological realms, and has informed and supported the development of US policy in these areas.