FIG Commission 4 Work Plan 2023–2026: Targeting the next challenges in the hydrospatial domain

Abstract

The evolution of hydrographic science and technology is continually shaped by emerging trends and challenges, influencing our comprehension and governance of marine environments. Commission 4 (Hydrography) of the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG) is charged with anticipating the impact of these developments on hydrospatial professionals and addressing emerging issues in its forthcoming four-year work plan. This necessitates staying informed about the latest advancements and navigating the interplay of factors within the hydrospatial domain. Commission 4 also aims to engage with the hydrospatial community to gain insights into the effects of current trends on global hydrospatial work at various levels. Establishing collaborations with key organisations, including the International Hydrographic Organization, professional bodies, standards bodies, global taskforces, and other FIG commissions and networks, is integral to ensuring the hydrospatial community can deliver the highest level of professional output for global hydrospatial information users. This article seeks to enhance community awareness and understanding of the roles played by FIG Commission 4 and its associated working groups. It provides an update on the changes and goals outlined in the FIG Commission 4 work plan for the term 2023–2026, introduces the term "hydrospatial" in lieu of "geospatial" for ocean and related domains, and introduces a new working group (WG 4.5) focused on addressing the impacts of climate change.