The purpose was to learn more about stakeholders' opinions on options for future governance of the initiative and on the possible involvement of the private sector. The consultation was closed on 15 December 2012.

A total of 244 replies were received (29 from civil society, 43 from the private sector, 95 from the public sector and 77 from the research community) from 30 countries, including some from outside the EU whose waters touch those of Member States. Many of the submissions, especially those from national governments, underwent an extensive internal consultation process and, therefore, represent the balanced views of many organisations. This was considered a representative sample.

All the replies are available through the website, along with a summary report. Respondents were asked to check that the draft summary accurately reflected their views. Based on their feedback, a small number of minor corrections have been made. The final report will be the primary input for an impact assessment to determine how best to move forward and achieve the "Marine Knowledge 2020" of increased productivity for public authorities, private bodies and the research community, more innovation and reduced uncertainty in knowledge of the behaviour of the sea.

Marine Knowledge 2020 aims to bring together marine data from different sources with the aim of helping industry, public authorities and researchers find the data and make more effective use of them to develop new products and services and to Improve our understanding of how the seas behave.

More information

Consultation on Marine Knowledge 2020: from seabed mapping to ocean forecasting