1. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum – 15 May 2008 - Oostende Marine Data Challenges: from Observation to Information Setting the Scene Kosats Nittis –MedGOOS

2. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) Setting the Scene (1) Purpose of Forum: ”Enhance the interface between marine data scientists and policy makers and industry” 1- Policy and industry decisions must be informed by sound information; 2- Bring scientists into the policy and industry interface 3- Transform their results into information format of relevance and use to policy makers and industry; 4- Opportunity for policy makers and industry to inform scientists of their questions they need addressed: information needs identified by the users;

3. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) Setting the scene (2) Purpose of Forum: “Enhance the interface between marine data scientists and policy makers and industry” 5- Improve the quantity, quality and accessibility of marine information available for decision making; 6- Requires sound data, understanding and advice which is transparent and accessible; 7- Resulting in new economic opportunities in the marine information sector in Europe;

4. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) Setting the Scene (3) Marine Data Challenges: from observation to Information Remarkable educational programme "Planeet Zee" (Planet Ocean): 1- the seven major themes for this project are derived from the Marine Board ESF position paper 'Navigating the Future III' 2- Developed in cooperation with some 100 marine scientists by the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), SHE Consultancy, DAB Fleet and the creative bureau Bal Gehakt.

5. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) Setting the Scene (3) Marine Data Challenges: from observation to Information Remarkable educational programme "Planeet Zee" (Planet Ocean): 3 - Ideal format to be used by teachers in biology, physics, chemistry and geography (all levels for students 16-18 years old). And for marine scientists, it is probably a good way to have their know-how translated to a young public within a school context. an example of how the activities of the Marine Board can be brought to a wider audience; 4- Invite Forum participants to go and visit the demonstration of 'Planeet Zee' in the Exhibition hall of UNESCO.