Meta’s Project Waterworth aims to build the longest submarine cable, enhancing global connectivity across five continents. SMART and OFS cables offer environmental monitoring and infrastructure protection. However, challenges such as outdated regulations and financial feasibility hinder widespread adoption. Increased investment in such technologies is crucial for improving climate change data and preparedness.
Submarine cables play a crucial role in global connectivity, as illustrated by Meta’s recent initiative to construct the world’s longest cable, Project Waterworth. Spanning 50,000 kilometers and linking five continents, it aims to enhance telecommunications in various countries, including the U.S., India, and Brazil. With around 1.4 million kilometers of these cables presently in operation, they facilitate data transmissions up to 300 terabits per second, demonstrating their importance in modern communication.
Beyond improving connectivity, submarine cables can also aid in climate change research and disaster readiness. Advances such as the SMART (Scientific Monitoring and Reliable Telecommunications) cables serve dual purposes, integrating environmental monitoring capabilities. Supported by international agencies, these cables are equipped with sensors to track oceanic conditions, including seismic activity and temperature fluctuations, thereby enhancing early-warning systems for tsunamis and earthquakes.
Another innovation, OFS (Optical Fibre Sensing) cables, are focused on safeguarding vital infrastructure by detecting vibrations through their fibers. This capability allows cable operators to identify potential threats from fishing activities and ship anchors. Countries like France and Portugal are leading investments in these technologies, with backing from the European Commission.
Despite the potential benefits of sensing technologies, the adoption rate remains low due to several challenges. Firstly, outdated regulations complicate the integration of sensors into cables, as current legal frameworks do not cover cables with such capabilities, resulting in lengthy permitting processes. Secondly, industry executives cite a lack of a viable business model as a barrier, with the added costs of sensors (approximately 15%) not directly generating revenue. Finally, security concerns arise, with some governments perceiving these cables as surveillance tools, leading to fears of malicious attacks.
Investing in SMART cables could provide extensive ocean data valuable for various industries and climate research. Knowledge on ocean depth, temperature changes, and seabed composition can improve operations in shipping, offshore energy, and fisheries. Experts emphasize the need for better data to fully understand climate change impacts.
Current regulatory issues hinder investment into sensing technology; however, updating these regulations could facilitate projects like Meta’s Waterworth. By viewing this project as multiple cables rather than a single entity, sensors could be placed strategically, avoiding geopolitical tensions. This approach could lead to the establishment of a publicly-funded database for ocean observation data, enhancing transparency and collaboration among scientists and policy-makers.
Countries such as Portugal exemplify how navigating these challenges can lead to successful SMART cable initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to climate data improvement. Other governments should consider their responsibilities to invest in infrastructure beneficial to public good. While embedding sensors in cables may not be a complete solution to climate change, it represents a positive step toward understanding ocean dynamics and addressing ecological crises effectively.
Submarine cables not only enhance global communication but also have the potential to support climate change research through innovative technologies like SMART and OFS cables. Facing challenges such as outdated regulations, unclear business models, and security concerns, the industry needs strategic investments and regulatory updates to fully realize their capabilities. Initiatives like Meta’s Waterworth highlight the importance of these efforts in fostering a deeper understanding of oceanic changes and improving climate resilience.
Original Source: theconversation.com
