The Role of Hydrographic Services with Regard to Geospatial Data and Planning Infrastructure

摘要

Hydrographic data and information have historically been collected and used for the production of nautical charts. Any other uses were, in most cases, considered of little importance. However, in the recent past, the requirement to support the users of non-navigational data and services has increased in importance. Ocean modelling and circulation, coastal zone management, environmental protection, oil and gas exploration, delimitation of the continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles in accordance with Article 76 of the Law of the Sea, especially the determination of the 2500 meters isobath, the laying of pipelines and cables, fishery and defence are some of the applications to which hydrographic data and information can be put by oceanog-raphers, geologists, geophysicists, academic and government institutions, commercial firms, fishermen, military personnel and many others.