World Hydrography Day
‘Our Seas and Waterways – Yet to be Chartered and Explored’ is the theme selected by the International Hydrographic Organization as the focal point for this year’s UN-sponsored World Hydrography Day on 21 June.
Coinciding with the 95th anniversary of the Monaco-based intergovernmental authority and its 85 member states, the annual event is aimed at increasing public awareness of the continuing need for hydrography for maintaining sustainable seas and safety of navigation in an era where at least 50% of the world’s coastal waters are either unsurveyed or inadequately surveyed. The difficulties and consequences for the future of shipping have recently been highlighted in an authoritative report published by Marsh, the leading global marine insurance broking and risk management concern in London.
Apart from the IHO, other leading hydrographic agencies and organisations expected to stage informative events include those in Europe, Asia, Australasia and the Americas.
By David Goodfellow
