Cross-Disciplinary Applications of Fields of Study

An oceanographer has to be a jack-of-all-trades. Oceanography is an inter-disciplinary science by nature, incorporating concepts from biology, chemistry, geology and physics. And while oceanographers may specialize in one field, they must be cognizant of the impact other disciplines have in their area of study. Below are a few examples of oceanographic research that requires a collaborative and inter-disciplinary approach in order to fully understand the complexities of real-life problems. 

Climate Change

The ocean is a fundamental part of the global climate system, and oceanographers are at the fore in studying the impacts of climate change. A complex issue, oceanographers are acutely interested in unraveling the interweaved effects chemistry, ocean circulation, oceanic processes and human activity all have on changes in global climate patterns. By combining perspectives from various scientific fields, oceanographers study everything from algae blooms to deep-sea currents in an attempt to better elucidate how these different factors impact the intricacies of the global climate system. 

Oceans and Human Health

The health of the oceans and the health of humans go hand in hand. Sustaining human life in a variety of different ways, oceans provide us with the air we breath, the food we eat, even some of the medicines we use to cure disease. However, unclean waters and beaches expose us to pernicious chemicals or microorganisms. Whether it be harmful bacteria on our beaches, or the tainting of our food and water supply, chemical or biological contamination of the ocean is often to the detriment of human health as well. Oceanographers explore this relationship between human health and ocean wellness by researching harmful marine pathogens, chemicals, or imbalances in the oceans’ own ecology. Such research helps to raise awareness on the importance of being conscientious stewards of the ocean.

Conservation and Resource Management

Oceanographers are generating the tools and scientific information required to effectively manage our coastal and ocean resources. Ocean scientists, mathematicians, and computer scientists develop effective models resource managers can use, better informing their decisions on how to best manage coastal and ocean resources.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters such as hurricanes, cyclones, and tsunamis are naturally occurring events, which can have a negative impact on people or the environment. Ocean scientists work with atmospheric scientists, mathematicians, and computer scientists to develop models that can generate accurate forecasts, providing forewarning to affected people and areas in the event of an imminent disaster, thus mitigating the effects of the disaster through enhanced preparedness.

Off-shore Energy Development

Off-shore energy encompasses the development of traditional energy sources, such as oil drilling and natural gas extraction, along with renewable energy sources, which harness offshore wind, wave, current, and solar energy. Ocean scientists, engineers, and technologists are integral in making effective use of these energy sources. 

Ocean Policy

The impact of the oceans on every aspect of life is palpable. The environment, technology, business, trade, and foreign policy all intersect with, and are affected by, our understanding of the ocean. Thus, ocean scientists are key components in formulating effective government policy, providing research and information needed to create effective policies with regard to the management and conservation of ocean resources.