Sea Grant Network contributions to the National Ocean and Coastal Acidification Response

Abstract

The Sea Grant network has made significant contributions to ocean and coastal acidification (OCA) research through partnerships and investments, education and participatory science opportunities, workforce development, translation into aquaculture applications, and policy blueprints. This study reviewed these contributions using programmatic assessments, bibliographic sources, and case studies. From 2008 until 2021, investments surpassed $22M and funded 106 projects across 22 of the 34 Sea Grant programs. This funding and key partnerships have supported the theses of 80 graduate students and 11 research fellows. In addition, 14 Sea Grant Knauss Marine Policy Fellows have been funded by the NOAA Ocean Acidification Program in OCA graduate experiences. The Sea Grant network plays an integrative role across research institutions, decision-making bodies, and coastal industries, and is well positioned to continue offering opportunities and novel insights to advance applied research and action to mitigate and adapt for OCA impacts on marine resources and ecosystems.