2021
Protecting the planet and the people

Seabed 2030

The Nippon foundation-GEBCO seabed 2030 project
International
2021

Ocean knowledge is critical to understanding our planet, yet when Seabed 2030 was launched in 2017, only 6% of the ocean floor had been mapped to modern standards – a figure that has grown steadily to 20.6% in the latest GEBCO Grid. Today, 81% of the ocean floor remains to be mapped within Seabed 2030's ambitious deadline. With the ocean covering over 70% of Earth, the need for a detailed map is clear. A complete map of the seabed is a vital tool that will enable us to make informed decisions – decisions that affect the entire human population, from understanding ocean circulation patterns and how they affect climate and weather patterns to addressing global safety, security and health issues. By working with governments, partner organizations, and individuals, Seabed 2030 hopes to inspire an international effort in pursuit of the complete map of the world's seafloor.