San Juan, PR — November 13, 2024

The Caribbean Coastal Acidification Network (Cari-CAN) hosted its first Ocean Acidification (OA) Workshop on November 13, 2024, at the Sheraton Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The event, which welcomed in-person and virtual participants, was organized by the Caribbean Coastal Ocean Observation System (CARICOOS) in collaboration with the NOAA Ocean Acidification Program CAN.  

This workshop brought together key stakeholders from across the U.S. Caribbean to address the region’s growing concerns about ocean acidification. Attendees included representatives from local and federal agencies, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations. The event provided a platform for participants to share the latest research, discuss the challenges posed by ocean acidification, and explore strategies to mitigate its impacts.

The workshop featured engaging presentations on the current state of ocean acidification research, followed by interactive working group sessions. These sessions ignited ideas and solutions that can contribute to the future growth and effectiveness of Cari-CAN’s efforts in addressing OA in the Caribbean region. Critical discussions focused on expanding monitoring efforts, particularly increasing OA observations and identifying additional areas for monitoring in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Topics also included data sharing, capacity-building initiatives, and tools to improve monitoring capabilities, such as GOA-ON kits, research cruises equipped with flow-through systems, and ocean buoys.

CARICOOS and Cari-CAN thank all the presenters, collaborators, and attendees for their valuable insights and active participation. We also extend our thanks to the Caribbean Fishery Management Council for their exceptional efforts in hosting the virtual event.

This workshop marks a significant step forward in enhancing understanding and collaborative action on coastal and ocean acidification in the U.S. Caribbean.