IE GSI MI Seabed Sediment Classification Irish Waters WGS84

Knowing the seabed sediment type is vital to many activities at sea.

This data is useful to researchers and fisheries as it helps identify different habitats that fish live and breed in and these areas can then be protected.

The data is helpful when building structures on the seabed such as offshore energy devices (wind, tide and wave), bridges and tunnels. The maps help to select the best site for the structure. Understanding the nature of the seabed (strength and type of sediment) will help prevent any disasters or long-term problems with a structure. This can be done by avoiding unsuitable seabed or engineering a project to suit the type of seabed it is to be built on.