The ocean covers 70% of the Earth, yet only 5% of it has been explored and mapped. OceanEye is the EU's response to this knowledge gap: a comprehensive plan to dramatically scale up ocean observation capacity, combining cutting-edge technology, international cooperation, and public engagement.

The initiative is a key pillar of the European Ocean Pact and will deliver on several fronts. On governance, it aims to improve how ocean data is collected, shared and used across the EU. On technology, it will accelerate the development of innovative tools such as AI-powered sensors, autonomous underwater systems, and the European Digital Twin Ocean — a free-to-use, real-time virtual model of the ocean expected to be operational by 2030. On the global stage, OceanEye will support the launch of an international alliance to strengthen the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS).

The economic dimension is equally significant. Over €92 million in EU funding has been earmarked through existing programmes such as Horizon Europe and the European Innovation Council, including €30 million dedicated to startups developing ocean technologies. The Commission also calls on member states, philanthropies, and private investors to contribute to long-term ocean observation efforts.

Ocean data is essential for a wide range of societal needs, from the safety of maritime operations and accurate weather forecasting to climate projections, coastal resilience, and ocean restoration. For the blue economy community, OceanEye represents both an opportunity and an invitation: to help build the knowledge infrastructure that sustainable ocean industries will depend on for decades to come.

More information: OceanEye initiative page