The European Commission has presented OceanEye, a new initiative to strengthen the EU’s role in ocean observation and data. It aims to make the EU a global leader in ocean intelligence by 2035, contributing to 35% of the world’s ocean observing system and securing a similar share of the related technology market. The initiative includes key actions:
Developing a more coordinated and integrated governance framework for EU ocean observation across countries;
Creating innovative digital tools, including the European Digital Ocean System bringing together existing services from the Copernicus Marine Service, EMODnet, WISE Marine and WISE Freshwater, as well as a fully operational Digital Twin of the Ocean for real-time data and modelling;
Increasing skills and awareness to help stakeholders better understand ocean challenges and opportunities.
The OceanEye also aims to reduce inefficiencies and duplication in data collection, align investments and priorities across Member States, research organisations and industry, and address existing gaps in ocean knowledge.
The OceanEye initiative supports both environmental protection and economic development, in line with the objectives of the Common Maritime Agenda for the Black Sea. It contributes to addressing key regional challenges such as pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss, while promoting cooperation for a sustainable blue economy in the region.
By linking regional actions with wider European and global efforts, OceanEye can help stakeholders in the Black Sea benefit from new tools, stronger partnerships, and improved knowledge for sustainable maritime development.
You can find out more via the official press release.