After collection, the samples are analyzed in the laboratory by scientists based on a common methodology defined by UNESCO, under the supervision of a high-level expert advisory board. As part of UNESCO’s commitment to Open Science, all results from this program will be made available to the public through the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS).
UNESCO has selected 25 World Heritage marine sites around the world for an initial pilot phase. Sampling began in September 2022. It has already been conducted at sites in Australia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands. Additional sampling is planned at sites in Bangladesh, Belize, France, Mauritania, Mexico, Panama, United States, Sudan, Yemen, etc. in the coming months.