The Global Sea Level Observing System (GLOSS), a component of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), is establishing a well-designed, high-quality sea level observing network to support a broad research and operational user base.
Sea level data are vital for

Research into sea level change and ocean circulation

Coastal protection during events such as storm surges

Providing flood warning and monitoring tsunamis

Tide tables for port operations, fishermen, and recreation

Defining datums for national or state boundaries
Sea level is one of the most useful oceanographic variables, used for a wide variety of scientific, economic and social purposes.