Real-time, scaled ocean data and marine intelligence are increasingly necessary for expanding global markets. We must continue to advance. Even though oceans dominate our planet (more than 70% coverage), data limitations are impeding the growth of a robust ocean economy.
Funding limitations, high costs, and a fragmented demand structure hinder current ocean data collection. Public-private partner- ships and the private sector can revolutionize this area by boosting innovation, cutting costs, and creating new commercial uses. Solutions include a more vibrant, sustainable, and profitable ocean observation ecosystem, achieved by connecting investors, technology companies, insurers, and other key industries with ocean data startups and nontraditional data.
STRENGTHENING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS
Historically, ocean observation has been driven by government-funded research, leading to a fragmented ocean value chain. A more unified and connected market approach is needed to satisfy growing societal demands for ocean data. Technological progress is hampered, and costs are increased by the market’s lack of maturity. Although commercial ocean observing models and services are contributing more, their role compared to government and research is less clear.
Identical ocean technologies and information are crucial for both public good and private enterprise. Better ocean information boosts coastal community safety, fisheries’ economic prospects, ecosystem services’ value, and blue economy investment. By collaborating, the public and private sectors can rapidly increase the amount of ocean data collected, thus meeting critical observational needs. A scalable, innovative, and efficient Ocean Enterprise needs sustained investment, like the Weather Enterprise, to fully utilize all sectors’ capabilities.
THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
AI and an information economy will drive much of the Blue Economy’s expansion in the years ahead, with success depending on scalable ocean data acquisition and enabling technologies. These technologies automate data collection, analysis, and decision-making, thus allowing for more efficient processing of vast amounts of scientific data. This offers exciting potential with huge benefits for both the public and private sectors.
NEEDED TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Cost-effective and agile uncrewed technology allows access to remote areas of the globe, areas otherwise too dangerous or challenging for traditional research vessels. Satellite calibration and validation, fisheries management, and harmful algal bloom monitoring are just some of their many applications. Surface platforms feed wind and environmental data into predictive models, and underwater gliders with onboard sensors monitor the ocean continuously for weeks at a time.
NOAA’s Ocean Enterprise program is at the forefront of creating affordable solutions by speeding up the development, commercialization, and implementation of cutting-edge ocean technology. Accelerators directly support entrepreneurs and small businesses developing commercial uses for ocean observation data in sectors like coastal management, fisheries, defense, infrastructure, water quality, aquaculture, shipping, ports, and tourism.
THE PATH FORWARD
Our ability to effectively monitor, understand, predict, and operate within the marine environment fuels the growth of a successful Blue Economy. To succeed, we must effectively advance technology, data collection and synthesis, while appropriately scaling ocean data acquisition.
Visit www.oceanenterprise.com to get involved.
This spotlight appeared in ON&T Magazine’s 2025 May Edition, Oceanography & Remote Monitoring, to read more access the magazine here.
