1. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum – 15 May 2008 - Oostende Marine Data Challenges: from Observation to Information Marine data and observation management: European Commission perspectives Alan Edwards, on behalf of Manuela Soares The Director Directorate I, Environment Research Directorate General

2. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) An Integrated Maritime Policy for the EU COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION October 2007 The Commission proposed an Integrated Maritime Policy for the European Union, based on the clear recognition that all matters relating to Europe's oceans and seas are interlinked, and that sea-related policies must develop in a joined-up way if we are to reap the desired results.

3. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) An Integrated Maritime Policy for the EU

4. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) An Integrated Maritime Policy for the EU MAXIMISING THE SUSTAINABLE USE OF THE OCEANS AND SEAS Requires actions strengthening the ecosystem approach to maritime activities, including marine RTD. Needs tools such as: spatial planning; an integrated approach to data collection, processing and delivery.

5. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) An Integrated Maritime Policy for the EU - RTD Marine research and technology are crucial for the sustainable development of sea- based activities. Maritime RTD can provide the key to decoupling the development of maritime activities from environmental degradation. Strengthening the interdisciplinary approach to marine science will be indispensable. It is also crucial if we are to predict and mitigate, as far as possible, the effects of climate change.

6. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) Marine Observing, Data Management and Information Systems (examples)

7. www.esf.org/marineboard First Marine Board Forum First Marine Board Forum 15 May 2008 – Oostende (Belgium) Conclusions An integrated governance framework for maritime affairs requires tools for policy-making. The availability of and easy access to a comprehensive range of natural and human-activity data and information on the oceans is the basis for strategic decision-making on maritime policy. The development of a European Marine Observation and Data Network, together with associated maritime observing & information systems, will provide an important tool in the implementation of an Integrated Maritime Policy for the EU.