The health of the ocean is vital for the planet’s well-being, influencing climate regulation and providing food, energy, and livelihoods for billions. Despite its importance, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the ocean, hindering sustainable governance.
Seabed mapping is foundational to virtually all ocean science, yet only 26.1% of the global seabed has been mapped by direct observation, limiting our ability to mitigate and adapt to climate change, manage marine biodiversity, prepare for and respond to natural disasters, support marine spatial planning, and develop sustainable ocean plans. While sustainable ocean practices have become a global priority and various projects are underway, their implementation remains complex. This is especially true for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), who are particularly dependent on sustainable ocean-based economies and most vulnerable to climate change. The political declaration that is expected to be adopted at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference makes specific reference to the need for increased efforts in seabed mapping.
Recognizing the urgent need to accelerate the availability of seabed mapping data globally, the Ocean Decade Alliance has initiated the Seabed Mapping Initiative, which aims to catalyze support for the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO) mission and Challenge 8 of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 (‘Ocean Decade’). In addition, this initiative will support the work of the Nippon Foundation – GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project, itself an endorsed activity of the Ocean Decade.