The International Federation of Surveyors promotes and is committed to the development of a better understanding and knowledge of our environment. The use of geospatial information is considered critical to the successful implementation of the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular themes 2, 4, 6 and 7.
FIG maintains a commission (Commission 4 Hydrography) to focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with the seas and oceans and in relation to the UN Conference offers the following:
International Standards
FIG Commission 4 shall continue to review and maintain International Standards for the Competency of Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers who work to collect and share marine and hydrographic geospatial data in support of capacity development, safety of transport and the responsible development and recovery of resources.
Capacity Development
The oceans and seas are the majority of the earths surface and as such require to properly managed in a responsible and sustainable manner. FIG Commission 4 will contribute and support initiatives to develop capacity in relation to surveying and monitoring of the oceans for the benefits of all. This may be in promoting the adoption of clear technical standards, creating centres of training and expertise as well as improving the understanding and awareness of governments of the importance in data collection, management and distribution.
FIG Foundation
FIG Commission 4 members are able to apply to the FIG Foundation for contributions to a sustainable future for the seas and oceans through the granting of scholarships to develop curricula for surveying education, training and capacity development; encourage research into disciplines of surveying and geospatial data management; promote learning, knowledge management and continuing professional development in support of the disciplines of surveying and support and promote young professionals and events in cooperation with other international agencies and organizations.
Progress reports
By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
Type of commitment
- Integrated Coastal Management
- Marine Spatial Planning
By 2020, conserve at least 10 per cent of coastal and marine areas, consistent with national and international law and based on the best available scientific information
Type of commitment
- Other (please specify): Support to implementing and managing access to and use of marine protected areas
By 2030, increase the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism
Type of commitment
- Other : Economic Benefits from the collection, access and use of marine geospatial data for sustained use of marine resources
Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries
Type of commitment
- Training and professional development
- Scientific cooperation
- Actions that support SIDS and LDCs
- Other (please specify): Support of professional surveyors in collecting, sharing and accessing geospatial data
June 2022
Support and assist initiatives to build capacity in line with international Standards for surveying, data management and sharing
June 2026
Develop awareness and promulgate information regarding the critical role of geospatial data for oceans especially in support of Integrated Maritime Policy, Marine Spatial Planning, Cadastre and
