The United Nations-supported initiative, Seabed 2030, is actively collaborating with various foundations and companies to generate a comprehensive map of the world’s ocean floors by the year 2030. This ambitious undertaking was launched in 2017 and aims to present a valuable resource accessible to everyone.
About the Seabed 2030 Project
Seabed 2030 is an impressive collaborative project between the Nippon Foundation, a Japanese philanthropic organisation, and Gebco, a non-profit consortium of maritime experts. The primary aim of this project is to create a complete map of the world’s ocean floors using the data collected through varying sources and technologies.
The project has seen significant contributions from Dutch energy prospector Fugro and deep-sea mapping company Ocean Infinity, who were instrumental in the search for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 in 2014. The data collection process for Seabed 2030 has been expedited considerably thanks to advanced sonar technology paired with innovative tools such as underwater drones and robotic aids.
Economic Benefits of Seabed Mapping
Seabed mapping holds vast economic potential. Over 90% of global trade is conducted via sea routes, hence safe navigation is critically essential, which can be significantly improved through detailed seafloor maps. The “blue economy” could also see substantial benefits as countries and companies pursue the protection or exploitation of deep-sea resources. Activities such as exploring oil and gas reserves, installing wind farms, or laying fibre-optic cables for internet connectivity can be facilitated by these comprehensive maps.
| Economic Activity | Potential Benefit |
|---|---|
| Oil and Gas Exploration | Identify potential reservoirs efficiently |
| Wind Farm Installation | Optimized placement of turbines |
| Fibre-optic Cable Laying | Ensure safe and secure routes for cables |
Environmental Significance of Seabed Mapping
In addition to the economic advantages, creating a map of the ocean floor also holds immense environmental importance. A comprehensive understanding of the seafloor would provide accurate data on sea levels, particularly beneficial in the event of ice melting due to global warming. It could also assist in predicting devastating tsunamis, thereby safeguarding coastal communities.
Challenges Faced by the Seabed 2030 Project
Despite the profound benefits of the Seabed 2030 project, the task isn’t without challenges. Collaboration at a scientific and technical level can lead to data misuse in geopolitical disputes. Some countries have displayed reluctance in providing strategic proprietary data to the project, citing national security concerns or geopolitical sensitivities, notably in areas like the South China Sea.
Future Goals and Importance
The Seabed 2030 project carries great importance concerning the UN Sustainable Development Goal (Goal 14) aimed at conserving and sustainably using the oceans, slated to be achieved by 2020. The next stage of the project will encourage widespread data contribution and crowdsourcing from various maritime vessels, including cargo ships, leisure boating, and fishing boats. This all-inclusive approach will help expedite the mapping process while increasing its overall reliability.
