Marine Environmental Mapping Programme website

The UK Marine Environmental Mapping Programme (MAREMAP) is a NERC-led initiative that applies a 'partnership-based' approach that will ensure effective co-ordination of marine mapping and sampling activities within NERC and the wider UK community. The lead partners are the British Geological Survey (BGS), the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) and the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS). Associate Partners include the University of Southampton, the Channel Coastal Observatory (CCO), the University of Plymouth, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Services (CEFAS). MAREMAP aims to maximise dissemination and interpretation of marine maps and models that contribute to science and policy. This multi-disciplinary programme involves geoscientists, biologists, oceanographers and technologists, and will deliver maps, scientific papers, policy advice and associated products that meet the needs of end-users operating in the marine environment. Key drivers include sustainable use of marine resources, spatial conservation planning/monitoring and submarine geohazard assessment/mitigation. End users of MAREMAP products include offshore industries (e.g. aggregates, fishing, aquaculture, renewable energy, oil and gas, tourism, cables), research scientists, UK government and non-governmental conservation bodies, and UK government departments concerned with marine spatial planning and marine hazard mitigation. MAREMAP products will be delivered through a dedicated website. Online data will be free-to-access in line with UK government and NERC open data policy. (www.maremap.ac.uk)