The smartest part of the North Sea
Planet Earth contains 70 percent water, of which 96 percent is in the oceans. It is an important source for food, resources, energy, transportation, leisure and living space. The Netherlands seeks to become a partner in developing healthy and productive oceans as part of the solution to global challenges. In the face of population growth and resource scarcity, oceans could contribute to food security, renewable energy and economic development. To research ocean and maritime-related topics, the Dutch have created a testbed just off the west coast of the Netherlands. The offshore testing ground is used for many innovative maritime projects, which can be shared with similar programmes around the world.