European Ocean Observation Initiative (OceanEye)

Practical information

1. Composition of the study group
2. Administrator / Assistant in charge: Frida Viklund Rundgren; Arturo Iniguez / Luca Pitrone; Phoebe Webb
3. Contact

Background

The European Ocean Observation Initiative (OceanEye) is a key component of the European Ocean Pact, aimed at strengthening the EU’s capacity to observe, understand and manage the ocean. It seeks to improve ocean monitoring, data sharing and forecasting to support ocean protection and restoration, climate resilience, maritime security, sustainable blue economy activities, and technological innovation. The initiative also aims to position the EU as a global leader in ocean intelligence and ocean observation technologies by 2035.  

The initiative seeks to address the fragmentation of ocean observation systems, data gaps and funding challenges by establishing a more coordinated European Ocean Observation System, strengthening international cooperation through a Global Ocean Observing System alliance, and developing a European Digital Ocean System, including the European Digital Twin Ocean. OceanEye is also intended to provide the marine knowledge and governance framework underpinning the forthcoming Ocean Act, supporting evidence-based policymaking and contributing to environmental protection, economic competitiveness, strategic autonomy and maritime security.