NOC News Round Up - 17 February 2017

Creating 'Virtual storms' to help design coastal defences A project has kicked-off that will create artificial storms to help predict worst-case scenarios for coastal flooding. Using computer models to make real storms more extreme, this project - led by the NOC - will help inform the planning of coastal defences and emergency response. Read more here or watch the report on this by BBC South today here (6 mins and 48 seconds in). NOC at OI North America The NOC has been at the Oceanology International North America conference demonstrating, as part of the South Coast Marine Cluster, the depth and breadth of world-leading research facilities on the UK's south coast. Kevin Forshaw, Associate Director of Innovation and Enterprise, conveyed a clear message that engagement with Blue Tech companies leads to the creation of world-leading innovative products being exported to global markets. Subscribe to our Working with Business bulletin for all our conference highlights. Important submarine canyons ecosystems are at risk NOC scientists contributed to a recent review of studies of submarine canyons that has identified they are at risk from human activities, and require better protection. Submarine canyons are major geomorphic features on continental margins, and nearly 10,000 large canyons are estimated to exist around the world. They face a number of current and future issues for their conservation, and this review proposes the types of research required to inform management measures to protect canyon ecosystems. To read the review click here RRS James Cook heads to the Bahamas This week the RRS James Cook left the NOC for the Bahamas, as part of the RAPID project.   This email was sent using GovDelivery, on behalf of: National Oceanography Centre · Waterfront Campus · European Way · Southampton · SO14 3ZH · United Kingdom