Long-term, regular observations of sea ice characteristics and monitoring of physical ocean conditions are crucial for safe shipping and blue economy (ocean-based economy) operations. This will become particularly important in the coming decades as sea ice becomes less predictable due to climate change. Furthermore, the expected increase in traffic along new shipping routes and heightened competition from the blue economy sector will enhance the need for smart, innovative technological solutions for observations and monitoring.

In this academic session, invited speakers presented the latest technological developments and improvements for observing and monitoring the Arctic Ocean and sea ice, as well as for sustainable green shipping in the Arctic Ocean, including autonomous vessels, acoustic operations for fishing, AI, remote sensing for shipping, and smart networks for scientific observations.