6 November 2023
On 4 and 5 November, NODC was at the Genoa Science Festival, which took place from 26 October to 5 November in Genoa (Italy). In its 21st edition, the event invites visitors to discover and explore science through conferences, interactive exhibitions, multimedia installations, shows and workshops.
NODC and ETT SpA gave the talk ‘Quando la scienza dà i numeri’ (When Science gives numbers) to explain the importance of checking the reliability of data to ensure data-based knowledge.
“OGS has always attached great importance to ensuring the quality of its marine data,” said Chiara Altobelli from NODC and continued: “To do this, you must first verify the data provided by the instruments before and after deployment. The Centre for Oceanographic Calibration and Metrology (CTMO) takes care of this. The CTMO is the only facility of its kind in Italy that specialises in the calibration of oceanographic sensors and the metrological characterisation of marine measurements. In many cases, the data is obtained after analysing samples with laboratory instruments, which must also be checked.”
“The NODC is responsible for collecting data on oceanographic parameters (chemical, physical and biological), meteorological parameters and marine litter parameters.” Alexia Cociancich of NODC said, adding: “Once the data is collected, it will be further verified, standardised and enriched with information that facilitates interoperability and reusability.”
Interacting with the audience, Altobelli and Cociancich demonstrated new and old instruments and methods for collecting on-site marine data and checking their quality.
ETT SpA's Marco Alba explained how European NODCs are working together to make marine data from multiple data providers freely accessible via web platforms such as EMODnet, the European Marine Observation and Data network. He provided some examples of how data can be used to predict environmental conditions and mitigate risks. Finally, he highlighted the increasing involvement of citizens in the collection of scientific data using trustworthy, cost-effective tools developed through EU-funded projects.
Following the talk NODC led the laboratory dedicated to the board game ‘Impatto’ (Impact). The game is part of a project to raise awareness of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on marine issues. ‘Impatto’ was realised by OGS in collaboration with the Play Res association and Ludo Labo. The players pretend to be a research institute that contributes to achieving the SDGs through sustainable projects. The game explains the importance of finding resources and optimising them through research, innovation and networking.
