A newly revamped Pacific Ocean Portal was officially launched on Wednesday, marking a significant step forward in regional efforts to improve ocean data accessibility, transparency, and collaboration across Pacific Islands Nation.
The portal, under the guidance of the South Pacific Community (SPC), offers streamlined access to oceanographic data, climate projections, maritime boundaries, and fisheries information.
It designed to support decision-makers, researchers, and communities in managing ocean resources more effectively amid growing environmental and geopolitical pressures.
Jen Kruger, Deputy Director of SPC’s Ocean and Maritime Programme, emphasized the portal’s role in bridging data gaps and empowering Pacific stakeholders.
“The Pacific Ocean Portal is a key tool to support Pacific Islands countries and territories in accessing and using ocean data to inform decision-making,” Kruger said.
“It is about making ocean data more accessible and usable for the region.”
Karl Kuper, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), underscored the importances of regional ownership and practical utility.
“You should be able to use this portal to find what you need, when you need it-whether it’s for planning, reporting, or simply understanding your ocean space,” Kuper said.
“It is built for you, and it should feel like yours.”
He added that the portal’s design reflects the nation’s priorities.
“You told us that you want something simple, intuitive, and relevant of your work-and that is what we’ve delivered,” he said.
“This is not just a data warehouse.it is a living tool shaped by your feedbacks and your needs.”
The upgraded platform features enhanced user navigation, mobile compatibility, and integration with other regional datasets.
It is tailored for coastal planning, marine spatial analysis, and climate resilience.
The launch comes amid increasing global attention on Pacific’s role in climate adaptation, marine conservation, sustainable development.
By ANDRIANAH KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
