An important part of the Swedish governance system is its aim to connect decision-making with scientific evidence, where data is seen as an increasingly important prerequisite for innovation, sustainable growth, and reduced resource consumption.
The goal of a science-informed governance system is reflected in the country’s national strategy to become a world leader in data-sharing, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation with the aim of strengthening welfare, competitiveness and a sustainable society (Regeringen, 2021).
Transforming data to knowledge is a central aspect in the transition towards smart maritime governance. For instance, SwAM’s report for Marine Spatial Plan in Skagerrak and Kattegat highlighted that better knowledge of cumulative effects on ecosystem values are found near the coast due to higher data availability (SwAM, 2018). Thus, incorporating mapping results of marine values and involving academic actors are priorities to increase knowledge generation and reduce uncertainty in the marine spatial planning process (Karlsson, 2019).
Recent experiences from the Nordic Innovation Organization showed that hackathons are prominent tools aimed at promoting visibility of public data and establishing synergy between multiple societal sectors by working together towards a common goal. These activities can contribute to Sweden’s efforts of connecting knowledge with private sector initiatives in order to develop innovative solutions for the blue economy. Results from this can contribute to promoting Sweden’s leadership in digitalization and responsible use of open data.
In line with the Green Deal, C2B2 will contribute to Destination Earth Initiative – the EU’s next step to develop a Digital Twin of the Ocean. The Digital Twin Ocean’s ambition is to make ocean knowledge readily available to citizens, entrepreneurs, scientists and policymakers to design the most effective ways to restore marine and coastal habitats, support a sustainable blue economy and mitigate and adapt to climate change. C2B2 will strengthen marine data stewardship, paving the way from Data to Knowledge to Decisions & Actions.
At a broader level, C2B2 will promote advanced technology, which can help address complex problems and demands. Data and digitalization used in governance and planning provides opportunities to contribute to new understandings on the interactions between ecosystems and human activities, as well as new means for monitoring and use of marine resources and the impacts from such use.
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