How digital technology could help save this keystone species
What is a Digital Twin?
A digital twin is a digital representation of real-world entities or processes. Digital twins use real-time and historical data to represent the past and present, and create models to simulate future scenarios. Effectively it is a virtual model designed to accurately reflect a physical object.
The Digital Twin Ocean is a high-resolution, multi-dimensional and near real-time virtual representation of the ocean, combining ocean observations, artificial intelligence, advanced modelling operating on high-performance computers. This knowledge will help to plan and design the most effective ways to restore marine and coastal habitats, support a sustainable blue economy and mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Funded by the European Commission and building on two decades of data infrastructures and ocean services, such as Copernicus Marine Service and European Marine Observation and Data Network, it is a key element of the Digital Ocean Knowledge System under the EU Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters.
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The system will provide an innovative set of user-driven, interactive and visualisation tools to the public, scientists and policy-makers. It will include:
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big data, rooted in the ocean data space of the DTO
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scientific models representing all components of the ocean system
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a single cutting-edge virtual collaborative environment
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Key areas for pilot applications of the project will include
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Biodiversity Assessments & Monitoring
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Fisheries & Aquaculture
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Pollution
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Wind Energy
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Renewable Energy from the Ocean: currents, Waves and Floating Solar
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Met Ocean Data: Hind, Now and Forecasts
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Marine Traffic & Harbour Safety
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