### World Hydrography Day
**History:**
World Hydrography Day is celebrated annually on June 21st to highlight the importance of hydrography and its role in ensuring safe navigation, supporting maritime activities, and protecting the marine environment. It was established by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and was first celebrated in 2006, following the approval by the United Nations General Assembly.
**Significance:**
- **Awareness:** Raises awareness about the importance of hydrography in maritime safety, economic development, and environmental protection.
- **Education:** Educates the public and policymakers about the critical role of hydrographic services in various maritime activities.
- **Collaboration:** Promotes international cooperation and coordination in hydrographic surveying and charting.
- **Technological Advancements:** Highlights advancements in hydrographic technologies and methodologies.
**Important to Society:**
- **Maritime Safety:** Hydrographic surveys and nautical charts are essential for safe navigation, preventing maritime accidents and protecting lives and property at sea.
- **Economic Activities:** Supports economic activities such as shipping, fishing, offshore energy exploration, and tourism by providing accurate and up-to-date maritime information.
- **Environmental Protection:** Contributes to the protection of the marine environment by identifying sensitive areas and supporting sustainable marine resource management.
- **Disaster Management:** Plays a crucial role in disaster response and preparedness, particularly in managing risks related to tsunamis, storm surges, and coastal flooding.
**Timeline:**
- **June 21, 1921:** The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) is established to support safe navigation and promote hydrography.
- **2005:** The United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution recognizing June 21st as World Hydrography Day.
- **2006:** The first World Hydrography Day is celebrated globally.
**Facts:**
- **IHO:** The International Hydrographic Organization, headquartered in Monaco, is an intergovernmental organization that sets international standards for hydrography and nautical charting.
- **Hydrographic Data:** Includes information on the depth and shape of the seafloor, tides, currents, and the location of hazards to navigation.
- **Modern Techniques:** Hydrographers use advanced technologies such as multibeam sonar, satellite imagery, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for surveying and charting.
**FAQs:**
1. **What is World Hydrography Day?**
- It is an annual event to raise awareness about the importance of hydrography and promote the role of hydrographers in maritime safety and environmental protection.
2. **When is World Hydrography Day observed?**
- June 21st every year.
3. **Why is World Hydrography Day important?**
- It highlights the critical role of hydrography in ensuring safe navigation, supporting economic activities, protecting the marine environment, and contributing to disaster management.
4. **How can people participate in World Hydrography Day?**
- By attending events, learning about hydrography, supporting marine conservation efforts, and promoting the importance of accurate nautical charts.
5. **What is the role of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)?**
- The IHO sets international standards for hydrographic surveying and charting, promotes the exchange of hydrographic data, and supports the capacity-building of hydrographic services worldwide.
**Wishing:**
- **Appreciative Wishes:** "Happy World Hydrography Day! Thank you to all hydrographers for your crucial work in ensuring safe navigation and protecting our oceans."
- **Educational Wishes:** "On World Hydrography Day, let's celebrate the importance of hydrography and support efforts to advance marine science and safety."
- **Inspirational Wishes:** "Honoring the dedication and expertise of hydrographers worldwide. Happy World Hydrography Day!"
World Hydrography Day emphasizes the significance of hydrography in maritime safety, economic development, and environmental protection. It serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate and up-to-date hydrographic data for safe and efficient maritime operations and encourages international cooperation and innovation in hydrographic practices.
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