Scientific research and monitoring activities play a major role in our understanding of the impacts of human activities on the marine environment. Advances in technology and development of human capacity contribute our understanding of the ocean and its interaction with competing pressures.The increased knowledge is fundamental for improved prediction and forecasting, sustainable use of marine resources, effective management of human activities, and the development of mitigation strategies.

The Government of Canada is committed to enhancing its science capacity and ocean and freshwater research and monitoring to ensure that its policies and decisions are based on the best available information. Canada has recently invested over $200 million in ocean science research and monitoring, new technologies, expertise, and partnerships. Through these investments, Canada is advancing its marine environmental agenda to protect the health of its oceans and coasts for years to come.