MISSION ATLANTIC is a funded H2020, 34 partner project that aims to develop and systematically apply Atlantic Integrated Ecosystem Assessments (IEAs). To support IEAs the project will map, model and assess Atlantic Ocean ecosystems including resilience and responses to cumulative pressures. Regional indicators are provided for both pelagic and benthic components, using existing and new data from monitoring programs, including surveys using new glider technology. Coupled end-to-end physical-biological models are developed and validated at the basin scale to simulate ecosystem dynamics, defining new biogeographical regions and resolving connectivity between regions. Outputs will include new maps of seafloor characteristics, benthic communities, and VMEs to enable IEAs as well as the development of predictive distribution models. A cohesive strategic mapping approach to support IEA through multidisciplinary seafloor bathymetry and benthic habitat data acquisition and dissemination, particularly in data poor regions will be delivered.
Thomas Furey
Tommy Furey is the Marine Institute’s Joint Programme Manager for INFOMAR, the Irish national seabed mapping programme, funded by the Department of Environment, Climate & Communications, and delivered in partnership with Geological Survey Ireland.
A geophysicist by background, having originally worked in 3D seismic, he now manages the Advanced Mapping Services team and has a key role in supporting the technology, innovation and product development associated with INFOMAR and its vast data resources, as well as increasing the downstream use and application of the data. He is currently the EU Co-Chair of the Atlantic Seabed Mapping International Working Group setup in 2014 to contribute to implementation of the Galway Statement on Atlantic Ocean Cooperation. He is co-leading the seabed & benthic habitat mapping work package of the H2020 Mission Atlantic project, and also supporting a variety of local and regional research initiatives.