A branch of the U.S. Dept. of Commerce whose mission is to promote global environmental stewardship to conserve and wisely manage the nation's marine and coastal resources, and to describe monitor, and predict changes in the Earth's environment to ensure and enhance sustainable economic opportunities. NOAA comprises the following programme offices: NESDIS, NMFS, NOS, NWS, OAR, COP, OGP and HPCC.