NOAA stands for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, an American scientific agency that focuses on monitoring and predicting changes in the environment. There are several synonyms that can be used instead of NOAA, including the National Weather Service (NWS), National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), National Ocean Service (NOS), and National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Each of these agencies operates under the umbrella of NOAA and works towards protecting the nation's resources and providing weather forecasts and environmental intelligence to businesses, industries, and individuals. Whether referring to NOAA directly or one of its subordinate agencies, these organizations play an essential role in safeguarding the environment and promoting sustainable development.