University of Plymouth Joins Seabed 2030 to Map the Global Ocean Floor

The University of Plymouth has entered a formal partnership with the Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project to support the ambitious goal of mapping the entirety of the world’s ocean floor by the end of the decade.

This collaboration involves the contribution of new bathymetric data and the deployment of satellite-derived bathymetry to enhance the resolution of existing seafloor records. Beyond data sharing, the partnership focuses on technical innovation in hydrography, autonomy, and remote sensing to streamline mapping efforts. All data gathered through this initiative will be integrated into the GEBCO global grid, a freely available resource intended to improve global ocean stewardship.

Seabed 2030 is a joint endeavor between The Nippon Foundation and the General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans (GEBCO), recognized as a Decade Action of the UN Ocean Decade. As the only organization with a mandate to map the global ocean floor, GEBCO operates as a joint program under the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).

Dr Jenny Gales, Associate Professor in Hydrography and Ocean Exploration, commented, “This partnership with Seabed 2030 is a natural extension of our ongoing work to explore and understand the seafloor. By contributing our research and data we are proud to support the global effort underway to map the planet. This collaboration will also provide our students with unparalleled opportunities to engage with international initiatives, and develop the skills necessary to drive future innovations in ocean exploration.”

Jamie McMichael-Phillips, Project Director of Seabed 2030, added, “We are delighted to welcome the University of Plymouth as a valued partner in our quest to inspire a complete map of the ocean floor. Not only will we advance scientific research, thanks to the University’s expertise in hydrography, but we’ll also inspire the next generation of ocean explorers.”

The university’s participation also emphasizes the training of future professionals through its Ocean Exploration and Surveying and Hydrography programs. Furthermore, the partnership coincides with outreach efforts such as the Girls into Ocean Science program. Launched in October 2025, this initiative encourages young women aged 14 to 17 to pursue careers in the physical sciences through hands-on experience in seafloor mapping.