The ocean covers 70% of the earth’s surface, yet only 5% of it has been explored and mapped. The more information we have about the ocean, the better we can protect it.

To improve how we monitor and understand the ocean, theCommission has adopted OceanEye. Through this new initiative, the EU aims to provide 35% of the global ocean observing system by 2035 and position itself asthe global leader in ocean intelligence.

Key EU actions under this initiative will include

To support these efforts, the Commission will invest€62 millionunder Horizon Europe to strengthen the EU’s contribution to the GOOS and global ocean data systems. A further€30 millionwill support innovations in ocean observation technologies.

OceanEyeis a key element of theEuropean Ocean Pact, the EU’s main strategy to better protect the ocean, ensure a thriving blue economy and support the well-being of people living in coastal communities.

Reinforcing global ocean observation

Visual story - Protecting the ocean together