GIS
GIS on World Data Ocean: a running collection of 8 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on gis in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. A Global Hub for Ocean Intelligence 4 World Data Ocean is a centralized digital platform where researchers, scientists, and ocean enthusiasts converge to explore, analyze, and… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around gis, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything World Data Ocean is covering right now.
Oceanography and GIS
Aspiring oceanographers with a geographic foundation can leverage Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for impactful research. This post addresses a Geography undergraduate seeking to specialize in marine science and apply QGIS skills to oceanographic applications. Resources for self-directed learning in this intersection are vital for bridging the gap between geographic expertise and oceanographic specialization. For those seeking broader career guidance, see our related article, "Looking for useful courses or certificates," which explores pathways into ocean-related fields.
How Geospatial Technologies are Helping to Complete the Effort to Map the World's Ocean Floor - Geography Realm
Mapping the world’s ocean floor—a monumental task historically hindered by technological limitations—is rapidly advancing thanks to geospatial technologies. Initiatives like the Seabed 2030 project are leveraging bathymetric lidar, sonar, and satellite altimetry to achieve a complete map by 2030, providing critical data for ocean management and climate modeling. This integrated data ecosystem reveals previously unknown features and supports informed decision-making.
Coastal erosion dynamics along the central coastline of Ghana (2000–2024): a DSAS-based assessment of ecosystem service implications and coastal management
Coastal erosion poses a significant threat to ecosystem services and livelihoods along Ghana’s central coastline. A recent study utilizing the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) and Landsat imagery (2000–2024) quantified shoreline change, revealing persistent retreat with mean erosion rates exceeding −1.80 m/year. Spatial variability was substantial, with hotspots identified near Anomabo, Apam, and Winneba. These findings underscore the need for targeted coastal management interventions, including ecosystem restoration and sediment management.
Introducing Global Fishing Watch Layers in ArcGIS Online and the Living Atlas - Esri
Leveraging the power of geospatial analysis, World Data Ocean now integrates Global Fishing Watch layers directly into Esri’s ArcGIS Online and Living Atlas. This collaboration provides researchers, policymakers, and ocean stewards with validated, real-time data on global fishing activity, fostering informed decision-making for sustainable fisheries management. Users can now visualize fishing vessel movements, analyze patterns, and assess the impact on marine ecosystems with unprecedented clarity.
Abundance and physical controls of Mediterranean micro-estuaries
Estuaries, critical transitional zones between freshwater and marine environments, are frequently studied as larger systems, leaving smaller micro-estuaries comparatively understudied. This research defines and investigates the abundance of Mediterranean micro-estuaries—vital coastal features facing increasing anthropogenic and climate-driven pressures. Utilizing a decade of hydrographic data and GIS analysis across seven East Mediterranean sites, we identified 243 micro-estuary-like systems, many previously undocumented.
Looking for MSc Thesis Ideas in Hydrography, Geodesy & Geoinformatics
Seeking impactful MSc thesis topics in hydrography, geodesy, and geoinformatics? This student, specializing in hydrography within a German Master's program, invites professionals and researchers to share insights. Interests span hydrographic surveying, bathymetric data processing, GIS, satellite-derived bathymetry, and digital twins for marine environments, with a focus on practical applications and industry collaboration. Consider emerging technologies and datasets poised to drive significant ocean intelligence—as highlighted in our recent article, "The future of our oceans: negotiating marine fisheries, aquaculture, and living resources with unbiased science."
Resources for honing Geospatial Analysis skills of Oceans
For environmental scientists and geospatial professionals seeking to specialize in ocean analysis, World Data Ocean offers a curated collection of resources to sharpen your skills. Leveraging established tools like Esri, Python, and R, these materials facilitate the development of targeted methodologies for ocean-focused projects. Drawing on experience from diverse backgrounds—as illustrated by the journey of a Colorado-based environmental scientist—we provide pathways to bridge terrestrial expertise with marine applications.
Resources for building Geospatial Analysis skills for Ocean Sciences
For environmental scientists and GIS professionals seeking to transition or expand their expertise into ocean sciences, targeted geospatial analysis skills are increasingly valuable. Drawing on established methodologies, this resource collection offers pathways to refine your abilities in areas like data integration, cartography, and spatial modeling—leveraging tools such as Esri, Python, and R. As one user recently explored in "Galapagos Fur Seal or Sea Lion (Ecuador)?", even experienced observers benefit from validation and collaborative knowledge sharing within the marine science community.