A continuing challenge is combating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction while furthering the growth of U.S. exports that are critical to maintaining the leadership role in an increasingly competitive global economy. Because of the end of the Cold War, BXA will simplify and update these export controls. BXA is continuing to analyze and protect the defense industrial and technological bases. Finally, BXA is helping Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Russia, and other newly emerging countries develop effective export systems and dismantle their defense industries. The effectiveness of U.S. export controls can be severely undercut if other supplier nations are exporting sensitive goods and technology or permitting the diversion of our exports.
Economic health depends on environmental safety.
Monitoring conditions in the atmosphere, ocean, sun, and space environment provides NOAA the capacity to protect the environment and predict many types of weather phenomena, including hurricanes and tornadoes. This allows people the opportunity to evacuate a community before disaster strikes. NOAA helps the American economy and gives the world the tools needed to achieve and maintain a cleaner world. The work of NOAA saves the Earth's environment, businesses, and property. Most importantly, NOAA's efforts saves human lives.