A technology centre aiming to improve the UK's understanding of its oceans and coastlines has launched in Plymouth.
The National Centre for Coastal Autonomy - Britain's first autonomous fully integrated coastal observing and monitoring network - was founded by the Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the University of Plymouth.
It will employ a fleet of state-of-the-art surface autonomous vessels, sub-surface coastal platforms and sophisticated scientific buoys to gather data, which will support policy makers and other organisations to gain an enhanced understanding of the coastal environment.
It will also deliver a platform to train and develop the next generation of scientists and technologists in partnership with industry and the public sector.
Professor Icarus Allen, chief executive of Plymouth Marine Laboratory, said the centre built on Plymouth’s "incredible legacy" as a "world-leading hub" for marine science and technology.
"[It] creates a unique capability in coastal science and net zero oceanography for the UK," he said. "It’s a pioneering initiative to expand the horizons of scientific endeavour using the very latest in technology and innovation. We’re incredibly proud to be a part of it, as we work towards a sustainable ocean future.”
Professor Judith Petts, vice-chancellor of the University of Plymouth, added: “If we are to bring about lasting and positive change for the environment, we need to employ the latest technological capabilities. Delivering policy relevant data that can identify challenges and inform solutions at a local and global scale is essential. By equipping our students with this knowledge, we are not only enabling a technological revolution but empowering the future workforce to apply it to societal and economic benefit.”
Professor Willie Wilson, director of the Marine Biological Association (MBA), said the centre would allow the MBA to develop biodiversity forecasting as a tool to help manage the impacts of climate change.
"It is a perfect example of the synergy of the Marine Research Plymouth partnership that will allow us to develop advanced solutions for ocean management," he added.
The initiative will produce monitoring data that can be used across sectors including offshore renewable energy; aquaculture; and defence. The University of Plymouth said it would also build on the success of programmes such as the Western Channel Observatory and Smart Sound Plymouth, and the industry collaborations developed through the Future Autonomous at Sea Technologies (FAST) cluster.
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