Transcript Document

Atlantic Seabed Mapping Workshop
Dec. 2, 2014, Dublin Castle, Ireland
Stephen Locke,
Natural Resources Canada
Government of Canada
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Session 5: Aligning Mapping & Ocean
Observation Efforts: Deliver Societal,
Environmental & Industrial Needs
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Session 5: Aligning Mapping & Ocean Observation Efforts:
Deliver Societal, Environmental & Industrial Needs
SLIDE 1
How well are current/planned seabed mapping & ocean observation efforts
being aligned to deliver Societal, Environmental, & Industrial needs?
1) Basic understanding of the value of seabed mapping is not there, as a public good.
2) Recognize that one map or dataset can be used for many purposes: environmental
protection, safety, economic development, research, etc.
3) Cabled Observatories – growing in scope, relevance and awareness, e.g. Ocean
Networks Canada with NEPTUNE and VENUS.
Stephen Locke, Director GSC Atlantic, Natural Resources Canada, Canada
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Session 5: Aligning Mapping & Ocean Observation Efforts:
Deliver Societal, Environmental & Industrial Needs
SLIDE 2
What are the key issues /priorities that need to be addressed to improve the
current situation?
1) Need to “tell the story” better on the value added of seabed mapping, ROI studies,
cost benefit analysis, using real examples
2) Lack of coordination and communication – internal to Canada and between Galway
partner countries expertise and directions
3) Political will and funding – government priority?
Stephen Locke, Director GSC Atlantic, Natural Resources Canada, Canada
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Session 5: Aligning Mapping & Ocean Observation Efforts:
Deliver Societal, Environmental & Industrial Needs
SLIDE 3
What mechanisms can be put in place to address these priorities ?
1) Establish a Working Group of senior science practitioners - share best practices,
standard development, lessons learned
2) “White paper” or comprehensive study on seabed mapping and economic benefits
3) Need societal/industry “pull” on government that this is important, keep telling the
story. Has to become a government priority. Improved ocean literacy/understanding.
Stephen Locke, Director GSC Atlantic, Natural Resources Canada, Canada
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