The Data We Need for the Ocean We Want – Third International Ocean Data Conference

In March 2025, the 28th Committee Session (IODE-28) will take place, and all relevant information can be found here.

Since 2013, an international scientific conference has preceded the Committee Session. This year’s conference will bring together ocean practitioners from around the world to discuss key topics, including biodiversity, capacity building, the federated Global Ocean Data Ecosystem, and Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management. The conference will be held in Santa Marta, Colombia, from 10–11 March 2025 and is co-organized by Invemar (Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras José Benito Vives de Andreis), IOC, and IODE.

Programme overview

DAY 1: 10 March 2025

Session 1: Ocean Biodiversity

This session will focus on advancing marine biodiversity data collection to support global efforts in halting biodiversity loss, restoring ecosystems, and promoting a sustainable blue economy. Speakers will highlight the role of the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS) and its contributions to key international frameworks such as the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). Presentations will showcase projects that enhance data accessibility, improve decision-making tools, and strengthen ocean sustainability initiatives.

Session 2: Capacity Development for Data, Information, and Knowledge Exchange

This session will focus on strengthening equitable capacity in ocean science to drive sustainable management and address global challenges. Speakers will showcase initiatives that enhance access to data, technology, and training at local, regional, and global levels, supporting the UN Ocean Decade and the IOC Capacity Development Strategy. Presentations will highlight the contributions of the OceanTeacher Global Academy (OTGA) and its partners, including Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs), in building expertise and advancing ocean literacy.

DAY 2: 11 March 2025

Session 3: Working Towards a Federated Global Ocean Data Ecosystem

This session will focus on building a federated global ocean data ecosystem through the Ocean Decade framework. Speakers will showcase efforts in implementing the Decade Data and Information Strategy and Vision 2030 for Challenges 7 and 8. Presentations will also highlight IODE’s partnerships, key outcomes, and lessons learned for advancing global data collaboration.

Session 4: Application of Ocean Data for Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management

This session will explore the integration of ocean data into Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management (SOPM). Speakers will showcase case studies demonstrating how ocean data supports Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) and Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM). Discussions will highlight best practices, challenges, and opportunities for strengthening data-driven decision-making in sustainable ocean management.

Workshop on the Ocean Data and Information System (ODIS)

This hands-on workshop will guide National Oceanographic Data Centres (NODCs), Associate Data Units (ADUs), and other stakeholders in leveraging ODIS to enhance data sharing, accessibility, and interoperability. Participants will gain practical insights into improving ocean data management to support planning and decision-making.

Practical Information

For full details about the conference, please visit: oceandataconference.org

Registration

Registrations are open for both online and onsite participation: Register here

• Onsite registration closes on Friday, 21 February, at 18:00 CET.
• Online registration closes on Friday, 28 February, at 18:00 CET.