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World Hydrography Day 2024

25.06.2024

The 21st of June marked the celebration of World Hydrography Day. For this yearly celebration, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) issues on a yearly basis a theme. This year’s theme was “Hydrographic Information – Enhancing Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Marine Activities”. The World Hydrography Day is a very important date and is designed to raise awareness about hydrography and how it plays a role in improved knowledge of the seas and oceans.

To celebrate this day, Director Charlene Sciberras attended an event organised by the Italian Hydrography Society (IHS) in Acireale (Sicily), Italy, following the theme issued by IHO. Distinguished guests addressed the attendees on various topics in relation to this years’ theme. The event had the patronage of the IHO and the Istituto Idrografico della Marina di Genova. The aim was to raise public awareness and understanding of the critical role hydrography and hydrographers play in achieving a sustainable and harmonious relationship with our oceans.

The conference agenda featured interesting presentations and valuable insights from leading hydrographic professionals. It explored varies interesting topics such as the contribution of offshore wind to environmental knowledge and the energy transition, application of standards for hydrographic surveys, tools for the design and development of floating wind farms, approaches to observing of the deep marine environment for scientific purposes and more.

Hydrography is crucial for all sea-related activities. It is a branch of applied sciences focused on measuring and describing the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers, as well as predicting their changes over time. The primary goal is to ensure safe navigation and support various marine activities such as economic development, security and defense, scientific research, and environmental protection.

Besides promoting safe and efficient ship navigation, hydrography is essential for numerous sea-related activities, including resource exploitation, environmental protection and management, marine spatial data infrastructures, boating, maritime defense and security, tsunami flood and inundation modelling, coastal zone management, tourism, and marine science. This definition of hydrography is given by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).

To achieve mastery in underwater environments, it is essential to have comprehensive hydrospatial data from the seabed to the surface. This vital information is provided by the field of hydrography, guided by skilled hydrographers. Here at Oceans & Cables, as our reliance on marine environments continues to grow, the importance of hydrography in ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable use of these vital resources cannot be overstated.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.