Project

OBAMA-NEXT aims to develop a toolbox for generating accurate, precise and relevant information characterizing marine ecosystems and their biodiversity. This will be achieved by integrating new/emerging technologies, including remote sensing, eDNA, optical instruments and citizen science, with existing marine monitoring techniques for improving our capacity to describe ecosystem function and biodiversity with higher spatial and temporal resolution. The project will contribute to shaping next generation monitoring programs and defining Essential Ocean/Biodiversity Variables (EOVs/EBVs). Stakeholders will be involved from the onset of the project to identify products needed in an iterative co-creating and specification process. These specifications will guide the application of algorithms, including advanced statistical analyzes and artificial intelligence, which combine and translate different data sources into information products (ie, maps and indicators) to fulfill stakeholders' needs. Routines for visualization and methods for uncertainty assessment are also important components of the toolbox development. The toolbox will be evaluated and improved based on 12 selected Learning Sites (LS), representing diverse ecosystems and data sources within the four European regional seas. The applicability of the information products, compiled with the toolbox on LS data, will be evaluated as input to models for predicting biodiversity and as support for environmental and biodiversity policies. The project will also assess the usefulness of the products with respect to the EU objective of designating an ecologically coherent MPA network and the applicability of C-burial rates in angiosperm habitats for carbon offsetting and Nationally Determined Contributions. OBAMA-NEXT will strengthen Europe's capability in acquiring and utilizing biological ocean observations for better management of marine resources through strong public outreach and active stakeholder communication.

The MAR-DEI center is a maritime knowledge center that contributes to initiatives and knowledge dissemination across the Danish maritime industry, with the goal of reducing harassment, sexual assault and sexual harassment (SASH), curbing bullying in the workplace and promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).

The Mar-DEI center is established to address the needs outlined by the Center for Maritime Health and Society (CMSS)/University of Southern Denmark (SDU) research report by Froholdt et al. (2023). The MAR-DEI Center provides independent (independent from authorities & companies) knowledge and support to seafarers sailing on Danish flagged vessels, interested companies, and stakeholders in the industry, relating to DEI, bullying, and SASH. It is an initiative that seeks to integrate safety and health in order to battle issues such as bullying, harassment and SASH, in line with calls for action by the International Labor Organization (22.01.2024).
It can be seen as a supplement to the newly announced initiatives (and CMSS English translation) that have been created by the industry partners in connection with the CMSS/SDU research report by Froholdt et al. (2023).

MAR-DEI is a collaboration between CMSS/SDU and SIMAC. It will run for three years and after 2.5 years, the initiative will be evaluated to ascertain impact, relevance, and sustainability, 01.03.2024-28.02.2027. It will be launched on March 1st and officially announced at the European Maritime Day that will be held in Svendborg 30 and 31 May 2024.

The Center has a three-fold approach; 1) Serving as an independent knowledge and data hub, 2) Providing a range of supporting roles, and 3) Ensuring capacity building.

The MAR-DEI Center will contribute to creating a transparent, supportive, and uniform approach to addressing bullying, harassment and SASH within the Danish fleet, ultimately fostering a safer and healthier work environment that promotes DEI. This proactive approach not only addresses existing challenges but also empowers individuals with the knowledge and support needed to create a healthier and more respectful work environment where seafarers on Danish ships may thrive.