Adrian JohnsonTLDR:
- Deep-sea technology has the potential to transform life above water by expanding our current horizons.
- A livestreamed panel showcased how technology can be used to explore the ocean and bridge the gap between humans and marine ecosystems.
Deep-sea technology has the potential to transform life above water by expanding our current horizons. Despite the ocean’s monumental role in regulating weather patterns, sequestering carbon, and feeding billions, it receives little attention compared to terrestrial and space exploration. The lack of accessibility to the ocean creates a disconnect between humans and marine ecosystems. To unlock the potential of deep-sea exploration, coordination, dedicated resources, and will are essential.
In partnership with OceanX, the World Economic Forum livestreamed a panel discussion between Davos participants and a submersible 350 meters below the ocean’s surface. This technological feat showcased how technology can be used to explore the ocean and establish an environmental baseline, enabling a deeper understanding of ocean ecosystems and their inhabitants. The livestream used light signals to transmit video and audio feeds from the deep sea to mission control, illustrating the potential of technology to transform our relationship with the ocean.
The Seychelles, a global leader in marine conservation, partnered with OceanX to conduct a scientific research mission in the Aldabra Atoll. This mission utilized advanced technology to study reef communities, plankton, marine megafauna, and deep-sea habitats, aiming to develop a comprehensive understanding of the Seychelles’ ocean ecosystems. Understanding deep-sea life presents an opportunity to develop a sustainable deep-ocean blue economy and address environmental challenges on a global scale.