Submarine Cables: Bridging Communication and Climate Research

Meta’s Project Waterworth will create the world’s longest submarine cable, improving connectivity across five continents. In addition to enhancing communications, SMART cables enable environmental monitoring, collecting critical data on ocean conditions. However, challenges such as outdated regulations and economic feasibility hinder widespread adoption of sensing cables. Addressing these barriers could unlock significant advancements in climate change research and disaster preparedness.

Submarine cables are not only critical for global connectivity but also serve as tools for climate change research. Meta’s Project Waterworth plans to construct a 50,000-kilometer submarine cable connecting five continents, aiming to enhance technological development in various countries, including the United States, India, and Brazil. The historical context indicates that submarine cables have primarily focused on global connectivity since the first cable was laid in 1858, with approximately 1.4 million kilometers of these cables currently in operation, capable of transmitting data at speeds up to 300 terabits per second.

Furthermore, an emerging class of cables, referred to as SMART (Scientific Monitoring and Reliable Telecommunications) cables, has been designed for environmental monitoring. These innovative cables are equipped with sensors enabling the collection of vital ocean data, such as seismic activity and temperature changes, and assist in improving early warning systems for natural disasters like tsunamis and earthquakes. Meanwhile, OFS (optical fibre sensing) cables offer protection for critical infrastructure by detecting vibrations around the cables, ultimately preventing disruptions caused by fishing or anchoring operations.

Despite their potential, the adoption of sensing cables has been slow due to several barriers. Regulatory challenges arise since existing laws do not address the use of environmental sensors in undersea cables. Additionally, industry experts have raised concerns about the economic viability of these technologies, as increasing costs without a sufficient business model hinder investment. Security risks also remain a concern, as some governments may perceive these cables as surveillance tools, creating hesitance in wider adoption.

Investment in SMART cables presents unique advantages; for instance, data on ocean depth and temperature can inform various industries and aid in mitigating risks associated with environmental changes. Increased ocean monitoring could significantly enhance our understanding of climate change. Experts have suggested that updating regulations could facilitate integration of sensors into major projects such as Meta’s Waterworth Project, creating paths for open-access databases consolidating real-time ocean data for scientists and policymakers.

Countries like Portugal exemplify the potential for SMART cable projects despite existing regulatory hurdles. By investing in such infrastructure, governments can fulfill their responsibility to promote public good and climate resilience. While embedding sensors in cables may not completely resolve climate change issues, it represents a necessary initiative towards comprehending our oceans and addressing the ongoing climate crisis. In summary, while challenges exist, the integration of sensor technologies into submarine cables could represent a significant advancement in climate science and disaster readiness.

In conclusion, submarine cables have evolved from merely facilitating global communications to playing a pivotal role in climate research and environmental monitoring. Initiatives like SMART and OFS cables demonstrate the potential for integrating technology with ecological needs. Overcoming regulatory, financial, and security challenges is crucial for advancing such technologies. With proactive investments and regulatory improvements, nations can enhance both connectivity and environmental resilience in the face of climate change.

Original Source: theconversation.com