The potential of ECDIS to be not just a tool for navigation but for environmental protection too was aired by Singapore Hydrographer Parry Oei in a thoughtful presentation that pointed out that adding information on shoaling grounds, protected areas and marine parks was a feelgood value-add to ECDIS’s core role.
A standardised set of symbols based on the S-57 standard could be used to help ECDIS play a vital role – a point driven home by a dramatic video of the aftermath of Singapore’s worst ever spill.
“IMO member states should be actively engaged but hydrographic offices and the IHO can play a role, a wider view is required,” Mr Oei suggested. With the advent of the new S-100 IHO standard, larger amounts of information could be easily included.
This meant better distribution of the data but he said the initiative was firmly in line with the IMO’s electronic highway concept. The MPA had demonstrated the concept at regional level with good feedback but accepted to move forward national ‘turf’ needed to be respected – and money must be found at a time when costs were under pressure.
