This Symposium will aim to “bring ocean observations to users”. It will coordinate ocean-related tasks within the Group on Earth Observations (GEO); discuss implementation of ocean observation systems; and raise awareness of the societal benefits of ocean observations to the broader community, particularly donors and policymakers. The symposium will be organized according to the Blue Planet Components: Sustained Ocean Observations; Sustained Ecosystems and Food Security; Ocean Forecasting and Services; Services for the Coastal Zone; Ocean Climate and Carbon; and Developing Capacity and Social Awareness. It will include a particular focus on observations in the Asia-Pacific region, linking observations to societal benefits, such as for small island developing States (SIDS) and coastal environments and the blue economy. GEO coordinates Blue Planet's work and is composed of 90 member nations, the European Commission (EC) and over 70 participating organizations.  

dates: 27-29 May 2015  
venue: Hilton Cairns Hotel, 34 Esplanade, Cairns, Queensland  
location: Cairns, Queensland, Australia  
e-mail: info@blueplanetsymposium.com  
www: http://www.blueplanetsymposium.com/