Recent Accomplishments in Observing Global Change

• Data from TOMS, SSUVB, and SAGE enabled the USGCRP to maintain continuous global monitoring of stratospheric ozone, documenting a record low total atmospheric ozone in 1993.

• Data from Landsat enabled full coverage of Brazil, documenting rates of deforestation. Estimates of deforestation rate are now lower than previously thought.

• Through a network of ground-based sites, the USGCRP maintained continuous measurements of atmospheric concentrations and trends of greenhouse gases. These measurements have documented that the rate of increase in CO₂ and in methane has slowed over the last two years.

• An interagency UV Monitoring Network was established for nationwide coverage of UV at the surface. Health effects research continues to show cause for concern and the need for continuous UV monitoring.