Ocean Decade highlights importance of Ocean Data Sharing at Ocean Sciences Meeting Workshop

As the bi-annual Ocean Sciences Meeting (OSM) that took place in New Orleans from February 18 to 23, the ocean science community converged to connect, explore and advance the impact of science. Co-sponsored by the American Geophysical Union (AGU),  the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO) and The Oceanography Society (TOS), OSM provided an opportunity to foster collaboration and innovation for a sustainable future.

Amidst this dynamic gathering, on February 20, the Ocean Decade made a significant contribution during a workshop titled ‘Ocean Decade Data and Information Strategy Workshop: Building a trusted, inclusive, and interconnected global ocean data and information system’. The workshop was co-organsied by the IOC Decade Coordination Unit, the Decade Coordination Office for Ocean Data Sharing (DCO-ODS), the Data Coordination Group, the Data Strategy Implementation Group and GOOS Observations Coordination Group. In this session, the DCO-ODS illuminated its role in ocean data sharing and the key objectives of Vision 2030 Challenge 8: create a digital representation of the Ocean. It also demonstrated currently available ocean data resources and underscored the profound benefits of collaboration within the ocean science community.

Designed for ocean data producers, custodians, decision-makers, and industry professionals, the workshop delved into the Ocean Decade’s vision for a robust, inclusive, and interconnected ocean data and information system. By leveraging existing resources and embracing best practices, this strategy aims to catalyse sustainable ocean management practices worldwide.

Throughout the workshop, participants gained insights into essential elements such as data standards, provenance, equitable access, data gaps, and capacity development. The interactive session facilitated discussions and sought valuable feedback to shape the strategy action plan, to be unveiled at the Ocean Decade Conference in April 2024.

The Ocean Decade Data & Strategy Workshop at OSM highlights the critical role of collaborative efforts to advance ocean science and stewardship. As we navigate towards a future of interconnected data sharing and informed decision-making, the DCO-ODS commits to support the implementation of the Ocean Decade’s data and information-sharing ambitions, paving the way for a healthier, more resilient ocean environment.