New NAS Report - Future Directions for Southern Ocean and Antarctic Nearshore and Coastal Research

New National Academies Study Released Today

Future Directions for Southern Ocean and Antarctic Nearshore and Coastal Research is a consensus study report from the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; Division on Earth and Life Studies; Board on Earth Sciences and Resources; Ocean Studies Board; Polar Research Board and the Committee on Future Directions for Southern Ocean and Antarctic Nearshore and Coastal Research. The report "identifies the highest priorities for research in the Southern Ocean and nearshore and coastal Antarctica, as well as gaps in current capabilities to support this research. Global sea level rise, heat and carbon budgets, and changing ecosystems are the three highest-priority science drivers for research in the region. To address those drivers and maintain a robust U.S. research presence in this vitally important region, investments are needed in the U.S. Antarctic program and its research platforms, including the development of new technologies and the replacement of aging icebreaking research vessels. Additionally, the U.S. should strengthen relationships with other nations’ Antarctic programs that can help support these essential science drivers."

See details in the full report (pdf can be downloaded for free).