EXCLUSIVE Seabed 2030 Update
Humankind has been mapping the ocean since we first sailed the seas. Knowing the depth of the seabed helped mariners safely navigate often dangerous shores. But what else can be gained by mapping our blue planet?
In 2017, The Nippon Foundation and General Bathymetry Chart of the Ocean (GEBCO) came together to look at how ocean mapping might support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 14: ‘to conserve and sustainably use the ocean, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.’
Interested in hearing more and learning from industry experts?
Join us at Oceanology International and expand your Blue Tech and Ocean knowledge through strategic conferences.
March 10-12, 2026 | ExCeL London
This was at a time when the need to map 70% of Earth’s blue surface was growing increasingly urgent, and at the time, only 6% had been mapped to an adequate resolution.
The absence of detailed underwater topography, or bathymetric data, was hindering our capacity to manage marine resources sustainably and safeguard coastal communities worldwide. Recognising this, Yohei Sasakawa, Chairman of The Nippon Foundation, launched the ambitious Seabed 2030 Project in partnership with GEBCO at the inaugural UN Ocean Conference in New York.
Explore the latest technologies shaping the future of Ocean Exploration, Sustainability and the Blue Economy
March 10-12, 2026 | ExCeL London
Through Seabed 2030, the two organisations have committed to building the necessary technical, scientific, and management framework to compile all available seabed mapping information into a seamless digital map of the world’s ocean floor by 2030.
In this interview, Oi talks to Steve Hall, Partnership Manager for Seabed 2030. Steve references wax rope, warzones, Prince Albert of Monaco, and the opportunity for all those involved in ocean exploration or the leisure marine community to help map the ocean floor.
Be updated with Oceanology International and follow us on social media
Looking for something else?
For further information, please contact:
Mike Enser, Marketing Manager
Oceanology International
Tel: +44 (0)20 8439 5226
[email protected]
Karen Bartlett
Saltwater
Tel: +44 (0)1202 669244
[email protected]
About the Oceanology International Portfolio
Oceanology International – Connecting the global ocean technology, engineering and science communities
Oceanology International (Oi) is the global forum where the ocean industry, academia and government connect to discover innovative solutions from the ocean technology and marine science communities to improve strategies for exploring, protecting and sustainably operating in the world’s oceans and waterways. Held at ExCeL London, Oi brings together ocean professionals, facilitates ocean connections and showcases ocean innovation and technology.
www.oceanologyinternational.com
Oi exhibition and conference incorporates various events and features, including:
- COAST - The Coastal and Shallow Water Zone
New for 2026, COAST at Oceanology International offers exhibitors a unique platform to showcase their solutions, technologies, and expertise to a highly targeted and engaged audience from across the global coastal and shallow water community.
- Conference Program – Diving deep into the realm of ocean science and marine technology
Featuring a compelling line-up of industry-leading speakers, the full strategic Oi Conference Program encompasses a diverse range of Technical Sessions and Ocean Futures-focused content across different conference locations. World-class scientists, thought leaders and innovators in the vanguard of the global ocean technology community will converge to bring insightful and original content.
- Ocean Futures Theatre – Meeting future ocean technology needs
Thought leaders from industry, academia and government come together to discuss meeting future ocean technology needs in line with market developments and new ocean enterprise strategies. Held in the keynote Ocean Futures Theatre within Oi, it features panel discussions and strategic debates on topics including Transitioning the Ocean Economy, Sustainable Offshore Operations, BlueTech Investment and Future Talent/Careers.
- Dockside Demonstrations
Oceanology International’s dockside activity is a hallmark feature of the event, offering visitors live, in-water demonstrations of the latest ocean technology and equipment. Attendees have the unique opportunity to see cutting-edge remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous systems, sonar, imaging, and hydrographic survey tools in real-world action, guided by experts. These demonstrations take place at the Royal Victoria Dock, where multiple brands and vessels showcase novel capabilities—allowing participants to closely observe technological innovations and interact with operators, all with the goal of experiencing emerging solutions for marine and subsea applications firsthand.
About RX
RX is a global leader in events and exhibitions, leveraging industry expertise, data, and technology to build businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. With a presence in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually. RX is committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX empowers businesses to thrive by leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers.
For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.
About RELX
RELX is a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. RELX serves customers in more than 180 countries and has offices in about 40 countries. It employs more than 36,000 people over 40% of whom are in North America. The shares of RELX PLC, the parent company, are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York stock exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.
*Note: Current market capitalisation can be found at https://www.relx.com/investor.