BOEM’s Environmental Studies Program (ESP) develops, funds, and manages rigorous scientific research specifically to establish information needed for assessing and managing environmental impacts of energy and mineral development on the human, marine, and coastal environments. Mandated by Section 20 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, the ESP is an indispensable requirement informing how BOEM manages offshore oil and gas, offshore renewable energy, and the marine minerals program for coastal restoration. The ESP has provided over $1 billion for research since its inception in 1973. Research covers physical oceanography, atmospheric sciences, biology, protected species, social sciences and economics, submerged cultural resources, environmental fates and effects, oil spills, and more. BOEM’s vision is for the ESP to be “first in class”— the best research program possible.
Environmental Studies
View list of ongoing and completed ESP studies
Science Quality & Integrity
Using the best available science through extensive peer review
ESP Strategic Framework
What does BOEM need to know, what strategic questions should be posed, and what criteria should be used to prioritize studies for addressing these questions?
COSA
The National Academies Committee on Offshore Science and Assessment provides independent, technical input on issues of interest to BOEM's environmental studies
Environmental Studies Planning
BOEM’s rigorous planning, review, and procurement process for environmental research
Report and Footprint Specifications
Guidance for authors, vendors, Contract and Project Officers, and editors
