European Marine Observation and Data network (EMODnet)

Abstract

The European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet) is a consortium of organisations within Europe that assembles marine data, data products and metadata from diverse sources in a uniform way. The main purpose of EMODnet is to unlock fragmented and hidden marine data resources and to make these available to individuals and organisations (public and private), and to facilitate investment in sustainable coastal and offshore activities through improved access to quality-assured, standardised and harmonised marine data. EMODnet is an initiative from the European Commission Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) as part of its Marine Knowledge 2020 strategy. Presently, there are six sub-portals in operation that provide access to marine data from the following themes: bathymetry, geology, physics, chemistry, biology, and seabed habitats. One further portal covering human activities is currently under construction. The current phase of EMODnet started in 2013 and will continue until 2016. BGS leads a consortium of 36 organisations from 30 countries in compiling the marine geological information required by the EC.