Session: OOFD-761
A model for promoting coral reef data sharing, acccessibility and improved application for conservation outcomes

This facilitated discussion will present and discuss a model for mobilising data and stimulating greater data sharing by coral reef monitoring programmes. The model brings together existing global coral reef monitoring network (GCRMN) experts, scientists, training providers, organisations, recipient countries into a single capacity building event that promotes a new culture of open data sharing. It also stimulates the application of coral... [ view more ]

This facilitated discussion will present and discuss a model for mobilising data and stimulating greater data sharing by coral reef monitoring programmes. The model brings together existing global coral reef monitoring network (GCRMN) experts, scientists, training providers, organisations, recipient countries into a single capacity building event that promotes a new culture of open data sharing. It also stimulates the application of coral reef research and monitoring data for addressing the needs of small island states in the Pacific.  

This model arose in the Pacific island region in response to interest from multiple training providers wishing to deliver capacity building events, but each proposed event came with a poor funding base. With the need to optimise delivery cost effectiveness of training to small island developing states, combining the various training events into one event presented some interesting new benefits and opportunities for data collection and sharing amongst the experts and stakeholders. These benefits include greater sharing across the different monitoring methods, improved understanding of countries’ needs in the application of coral reef data, and standardisations of tools and methods to meet the needs of target groups. The discussion will draw out audience suggestions on how this model could be improved or adapted to further enhance data mobilisation, accessibility and sharing for coral reef conservation outcomes.