A Rimouski ocean mapping technology deployed in the Arctic
The Interdisciplinary Centre for the Development of Ocean Mapping (CIDCO), a Green Marine supporter, is contributing to a major seabed mapping project along Greenland’s coast using its HydroBlock technology. Deployed in collaboration with the Government of Denmark and supported by the Quebec government’s international collaboration research programme, the initiative highlights the strategic role of Quebec’s expertise in understanding and managing northern waters.
HydroBlock is a next-generation solution designed to facilitate the acquisition and analysis of hydrographic data in remote and complex environments such as the Arctic. Mounted on vessels operating along northern trade routes, the technology measures seabed depth and relief using sonar systems, while adapting to the operational and climatic constraints of these regions.
The collected data is then used to produce detailed nautical charts, which are essential for safer navigation and more robust coastal infrastructure planning. By leveraging the repeated passage of vessels, HydroBlock supports a continuous enrichment of seabed knowledge through shared data acquisition.
With melting sea ice and the progressive opening of new Arctic shipping routes, high‑resolution seabed mapping is becoming a strategic issue for both safety and environmental protection. More accurate charts help reduce the risk of groundings, improve port approach management and support better route planning, which can also contribute to optimized fuel use.
Enhanced seabed knowledge also supports environmental monitoring and more sustainable resource use in these sensitive ecosystems. It further provides a sounder scientific foundation for international discussions on the future use of northern shipping routes.
This initiative is part of a broader portfolio of innovations led by CIDCO, ranging from artificial intelligence that analyzes seabed imagery to active participation in international working groups focused on marine data acquisition technologies. It demonstrates how cooperation among governments, research centres, and industry can accelerate the transition toward safer, more sustainable shipping.