As described on the ITAC 2019 website, the Industry Technical Advisory Committee (ITAC) is non-commercial and is driven by Oil Spill Response Limited as part of its outreach program to facilitate the technical debate for more effective oil spill preparedness and response. The ITAC meeting is held once per year, hosted in different locations, alternately in Europe or North America.  

NOAA representatives were active in discussions and presented two topics at the forum. Scott Lundgren provided a brief overview of the Office of Response and Restoration and technical advances within OR&R’s emergency response portfolio. Lisa DiPinto presented on a range of research and methods development projects underway with numerous collaborators. 

The group had the opportunity to hear from many in the industry, research, and government community during the course of the three day agenda [pdf] including extensive time for side discussions of common interests and potential collaborative projects. National Oceanography Center scientists provided tours and overviews of their extensive marine robotics portfolio including remotely operated vehicles, autonomous surface vessels, autonomous underwater vehicles, and gliders with a particular focus on collaborations with Oil Spill Response Ltd on spill applications. 

Attendees also received a tour of the Oil Spill Response Ltd Southampton headquarters and spill equipment depot, including a portion of the OSRL global dispersant stockpile, its Emergency Operations Center, and extensive equipment cache.

For further information, contact Scott.Lundgren@noaa.gov.

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