The 21st of June marks the celebration of World Hydrography Day. For this yearly celebration, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) issues on a yearly basis a theme. For this year the theme is “Hydrographic Information – Enhancing Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Marine Activities”. The World Hydrography Day is a very important date and is designed to raise awareness about hydrography and how it plays a role in improved knowledge of the seas and oceans.
Hydrography is crucial for all sea-related activities. It is a branch of applied sciences focused on measuring and describing the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers, as well as predicting their changes over time. The primary goal is to ensure safe navigation and support various marine activities such as economic development, security and defense, scientific research, and environmental protection.
Besides promoting safe and efficient ship navigation, hydrography is essential for numerous sea-related activities, including resource exploitation, environmental protection and management, marine spatial data infrastructures, boating, maritime defense and security, tsunami flood and inundation modelling, coastal zone management, tourism, and marine science. This definition of hydrography is given by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).
On the same day of the celebration, the Italian Hydrography Society (IHS) is organising a very important event in Acireale (Sicily), Italy, following the theme issued by IHO. Distinguished guests will be addressing the attendees on various topics in relation to this years’ theme. The event will have the patronage of the IHO and the Istituto Idrografico della Marina di Genova. This event aims to raise public awareness and understanding of the critical role hydrography and hydrographers play in achieving a sustainable and harmonious relationship with our oceans.
The conference agenda will feature presentations, discussions, and valuable insights from leading hydrographic professionals. This forum will explore:
- Sea – the contribution of offshore wind to environmental knowledge and the energy transition
- Application of Standards for Hydrographic Surveys
- Hydrography as a key tool for the design and development of floating wind farms
- Approaches to observing of the deep marine environment for scientific purposes – the support of hydrography
- Integrated hydrographic solution for coastal mapping and monitoring
- KM3NET a scientific research laboratory at the bottom of the sea
- Hydrography for sea rescue
- Underwater dimension and hydrography, the right combination for a continuous and strategic exploitation of the sea resource.
By fostering public awareness of hydrography, the IHS hopes to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the importance of protecting our oceans and ensuring their continued health and vibrancy. Moreover, the event is supported by the Italian Coast Guard, Assemblea Regione Siciliana, Città di Acireale, Italian Red Cross, AIAS Acireale, Istituto Italiano di Navigazione, ONTM Osservatorio Nazionale Tutela Mare, Parthenope University, Sapienza University Dept. of Geopolitics and Global Security, UPGC and sponsored from Generali Insurance and AIAS of Acireale. The conference will be held also with a remote participation option available for those unable to attend in person. For further information regarding the conference and registration details, please contact us.
