A diverse array of marine organisms are used for food, medicine, cosmetics, and a wealth of industrial applications, while the world’s demands for energy, minerals and water have become increasingly dependent on non-living marine resources. MSI researchers are working to monitor and assess the condition of the ocean’s resources and to determine the impacts that humans have on them through fishing, offshore oil and gas operations, coastal development and municipal and industrial discharges. The focus of MSI’s Coastal Research Center (CRC) is on gaining a comprehensive understanding of coastal and island ecosystems, which is necessary for sound resource management.