Defra are currently welcoming applications to tender for a feasibility study to consider the use of earth observation satellite data to meet Industry and UK Government statutory monitoring needs in the marine environment.

A Feasibility study to consider the use of earth observation satellite data to meet Industry and UK Government statutory monitoring needs in the marine environment– tender reference MB0141

The primary aim of this project is to help find smarter and more cost effective ways of delivering UK Government and industry obligations by considering the feasibility of using earth observation (EO) satellite data in the marine environment. In particular, practical consideration of the use of EO data to improve the efficiency of offshore environmental impact assessments, to meet identification, monitoring, and reporting requirements for Special Protection Areas (SPA) under the EU Wild Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC), and to meet reporting and assessment requirements under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and licensing requirements under the Marine and Coastal Access Act (MCAA). Consideration should be given to a variety of uses of EO within the marine environment, including the monitoring of seabirds and marine mammals and to meet statutory monitoring obligations for industry i.e. surveys for renewable energy developments and fisheries monitoring and compliance.

This competition opened on 16^th October 2014 and closes for applications on 11^th November 2014. The contract is expected to commence on 17^th November 2014, and end on 31^st March 2015.

Full details of this tender, along with instructions on bidding for the tender, are available on Defra’s website in the ‘current opportunity’ section https://defra.bravosolution.co.uk/web/login.shtml