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Suva & Nadi, Fiji — November 2024

Fiji became the epicenter of global ocean mapping, hydrographic collaboration and geospatial information management as it hosted a series of landmark meetings with a strong focus on Pacific engagement. From the 41st Meeting of the GEBCO Guiding Committee (GGC41) and the 6th Pacific Ocean Mapping Meeting to the subsequent UN workshops on geospatial frameworks and sustainable development, the events underscored the critical role of ocean and data governance for Pacific Island countries and territories.

130 participants representing 45 Member States, Observers and partner organizations gathered at the IHO Secretariat in Monaco and online for the annual meeting of the Council from 15-17 October. Participants discussed topics covering education and training, technology, a potential new infrastructure center and of course the transition to smart navigation. With the provision of products and services scheduled to begin in January 2026, many of the discussions focused on progress with the implementation of S-100, the Universal Hydrographic Data Model.

The main goals of the meeting were to review the work plan, take stock of progress, and decide on priority areas for the coming year.

Hurricane Helene caused severe damage to several areas of the East Coast of the USA, which in turn has significantly impacted the operations of NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) in Asheville. Many of their systems including the online access to IHO DCDB-archived bathymetric data are currently down.

The maritime domain is in the midst of radical changes which will propel navigation forward and open a realm of new possibilities. These transformations will pave the way for e-navigation and autonomous shipping aiming to improve safety, efficiency and sustainable vessel operations. At the core of these transformations is the digital twin of navigable waters.

“Professionalism”, “dedication”, “profound knowledge”, “expertise”, “kindness”,  these are a few of the words used to describe the winner of the new Ex Abyssis ad Alta – IHO Award for Hydrographic Excellence.

The Republic of Kiribati has officially become the 100th Member State of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), marking a significant milestone for the global hydrographic community. This historic landmark opens up numerous benefits of being an IHO Member State, from helping carry out obligations under the SOLAS Convention, to enhancing safety of navigation, maritime security, fisheries management, economic growth, environmental protection, and climate resilience.

In many places around the world, data clearly shows the level of the sea is rising. In low lying coastal areas, even small increases when coupled with high tides and storm surges have had devastating consequences, such as altering coastlines, impacting offshore energy infrastructure and displacing populations. A better understanding of factors influencing sea level is vital in order to prepare for and mitigate its impacts.

The IHO has published the first “Satellite-Derived Bathymetry Best Practice Guide” for the hydrographic community. The new document provides an overview of methods and factors to consider when applying SDB to map shallow coastal environments.