HUB Ocean & UNESCO Workshop Explores Data Sharing for Ocean Modelling
A recent workshop, co-hosted by HUB Ocean and the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), has explored the potential of data sharing among private companies and ocean scientists. The event, held in March 2023, focused on ocean modelling and its role in addressing global challenges.
The workshop highlighted several use cases that could optimize offshore operations and infrastructure designs. One such case aims to improve wind and wave forecasting, while another seeks to estimate the impact of extreme weather events on industrial assets at sea. A third use case estimates the impact of coastal and shallow shelf processes on installations and human populations.
Despite the potential benefits, data sharing is often hindered by legal, technical, financial, and competitive barriers. Companies may not see the immediate value of sharing data or may be uncertain about which datasets are needed for scientific advancement. However, success stories like the MAREANO project demonstrate that when the goal is clear, multiple stakeholders can effectively share ocean data.
The workshop identified three tangible modelling use cases that could deliver business value to industry and fill data gaps. While challenges to data sharing persist, efforts like this workshop and the MAREANO project show that collaboration between private companies and ocean scientists can lead to advancements in ocean science and sustainable development. As of 2023, no specific companies have been identified as collaborating with HUB Ocean and IOC on data sharing, but the potential for future partnerships is clear.
