Canadian Ocean Mapping and Education Network (COMREN)

Canadian Ocean Mapping Research and Education Network (COMREN) Bolsters 'Blue Economy'

The Canadian Ocean Mapping Research and Education Network (COMREN) is a collaborative initiative that supports ocean mapping research and education in Canada. This network plays a critical role in enhancing knowledge and capacity for sustainable ocean management, contributing to the 'blue economy' by providing oceanographic data, training, and research that underpin sustainable maritime industries.

COMREN is a network of academic institutions and one nonprofit organization, not currently a legal entity. It operates in both French and English, Canada's official languages. The network draws on institutional expertise and resources across Canada, with a focus on helping geographically separated regions benefit from potential growth in the global ocean economy.

One of COMREN's key partners is the Marine Institute, an internationally active institute that has engaged in over 200 projects in over 50 countries. Another partner is the Inter-disciplinary Centre for the Development of Ocean Mapping (CIDCO), a collaborative hub for research and development dedicated to improving state-of-the-art technology in marine geospatial (Hydrospatial) data acquisition, processing, and management.

COMREN is involved in ocean mapping research programs, from innovation in underlying technologies to implementing challenging applications. The network's purpose includes developing research activities, achieving technology transfer to industry, and developing and running educational programs. COMREN looks to promote ocean mapping research within Canada, and worldwide; to facilitate cooperation between educational institutions and instructors; and to develop and enhance training programs in Canada recognized by the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), and International Cartographic Association (ICA).

While there is no updated information from the search results about COMREN's recent activities or future plans as of August 2025, typical future directions for networks like COMREN focus on expanding partnerships among academic institutions, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to improve ocean data infrastructure. They also aim to enhance marine spatial planning capabilities to balance economic development with environmental stewardship, support the development of new innovative mapping technologies, and train the next generation of ocean scientists and technicians skilled in marine data analysis.

For the latest and detailed status, I recommend consulting official Canadian government platforms (such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada), academic consortia websites, or COMREN’s dedicated portals if available. If you want, I can also help draft a more targeted look-up or monitor news sources for emerging updates on COMREN's role in the blue economy.

In addition to COMREN, other educational institutions in Canada offer programs in geomatics and ocean mapping. For example, the Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics at the University of Ottawa offers training in geomorphology, climatology, biogeography, human, social, and cultural geography, as well as GIS and remote sensing, with a focus on satellite-based ocean mapping. The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) offers a two-year Diploma in Geomatics Engineering Technology, with the choice of pursuing a career in industry upon graduation or continuing for a further two years of study toward a Bachelor of Science in Geomatics. The Department of Geodesy and Geomatics Engineering at the University of New Brunswick offers education and research programs at the undergraduate, Master's, and PhD level in GNSS, Geodesy, GIS, Big Data Analytics, Remote Sensing, and Ocean Mapping. Université Laval's Department of Geomatics Sciences also offers the only program in Quebec to train geomatics engineers.

Moreover, the Department of Earth and Space Science and Engineering at York University offers unique and world-class graduate and undergraduate programs, including the Geomatics Engineering program accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board, the Association of Ontario Land Surveyors, and The Canadian Board of Examiners for Professional Surveyors (CBEPS) Level-2. The Ocean Supercluster, a federally-funded initiative, aims to have a 10-year GDP impact of at least $14 billion (CDN) and generate more than 3,000 jobs.

In conclusion, COMREN plays a vital role in Canada's 'blue economy' by supporting ocean mapping research and education. The network's collaborative approach and focus on innovation make it a valuable asset in the sustainable development of the maritime industries. For more information on COMREN's current activities and future plans, I recommend consulting official Canadian government platforms, academic consortia websites, or COMREN’s dedicated portals.

The Inter-disciplinary Centre for the Development of Ocean Mapping (CIDCO) is a partner of COMREN, focusing on improving technology in marine geospatial data acquisition, processing, and management.
COMREN looks to develop research activities, achieve technology transfer to industry, and offer educational programs, with a goal to train the next generation of ocean scientists and technicians.
The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) offers a Diploma in Geomatics Engineering Technology, with the option to pursue a career in industry or continue for a Bachelor of Science in Geomatics.
Université Laval's Department of Geomatics Sciences offers the only program in Quebec to train geomatics engineers, while the Ocean Supercluster, a federally-funded initiative, aims to generate economic growth in the maritime industry.