Ocean Capacity Development
Mercator Ocean is committed to sharing skills, transferring marine technology, and empowering communities in Ocean prediction and digital Ocean systems to ensure a sustainable future for our Ocean.
Mercator Ocean develops and implements programmes to strengthen capacities in Ocean prediction and digital Ocean system services and applications. By sharing expertise and transferring technology, these efforts foster local knowledge and tailored solutions for regional needs. In addition to major initiatives, Mercator Ocean offers a variety of capacity development events and learning opportunities, enabling communities and individuals to build their skills and make the most of ocean data and digital tools.
Major Initiatives
As host of the OceanPrediction Decade Collaborative Centre (DCC), established by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, Mercator Ocean coordinates global efforts to advance Ocean prediction systems and unite a vibrant international community of scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders. Since 2023, the DCC has fostered collaboration through nine regional teams and developed tools to enhance forecasting worldwide.
Ocean Prediction Enhancement in Regions of Africa
Funded by the European Union, OPERA aims to strengthen African Ocean prediction capabilities and cooperation at national, regional, pan-African levels. As the Ocean-focused component of the African Regional Centres of Excellence for the Green Transition (ArcX) programme, OPERA develops fit-for-purpose tools, applications, and services essential for the sustainable management of ocean resources, disaster risk reduction, and growth of sustainable blue economies.
This four-year programme (2025–2028) is dedicated to advancing digital, science, technology, and innovation capacities in Sub-Saharan Africa, fostering scientific knowledge and innovation-driven sustainable development. Mercator Ocean International implements OPERA in partnership with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA).
Ocean Prediction for Costa Rica
Launched by Mercator Ocean and the European Commission’s DG INTPA, the Ocean Prediction for Costa Rica (OP4CR) project (2025–2026) aims to strengthen Costa Rica’s digital ocean capacities and connect the country to global networks of ocean prediction experts. OP4CR is structured in two phases:
- Phase 1: Develops a dashboard based on ocean forecasting data to support monitoring of Cocos Island National Park.
- Phase 2: Provides a detailed diagnosis and an action plan for establishing an Ocean Prediction Services Centre in Costa Rica
“Both the OPERA project in Africa and the Ocean Prediction for Costa Rica initiative are strategic opportunities for us to put into practice the collective knowledge, tools, and partnerships developed at Mercator Ocean International and the OceanPrediction Decade Collaborative Centre. By collaborating closely with local institutions, we are helping to strengthen regional capacities in Ocean monitoring and management, advancing the shared goal of a mobilised and connected Prediction community across continents.”
Enrique Alvarez Fanjul, Technical Coordinator, OceanPrediction DCC at Mercator Ocean International
Capacity Development Events and Learning Opportunities
Mercator Ocean offers a broad range of training programs, workshops, hackathons, and online resources to empower communities and individuals with practical skills in Ocean prediction and digital ocean systems. These opportunities deepen expertise, foster collaboration, and support effective use of Ocean data for sustainable decision-making.
Trainings and Workshops
Participate in comprehensive training sessions and hands-on workshops organized by Mercator Ocean and its partners. Tailored to diverse audiences, these events focus on building practical skills for using Ocean data and digital tools.
Learning Opportunities and Online Resources
Enhance your Ocean data skills through expert-led learning opportunities and a variety of online tutorials. Explore training tools via the Copernicus WEkEO platform, covering Copernicus Marine, Climate Change, Atmosphere, Land Services, and the Sentinel portfolio.