SEA-Quester Data Management Plan

This deliverable report includes an initial version of a Data Management Plan (DMP) for the SEA-Quester project, which addresses the comprehensive management and dissemination of data collected and generated throughout the project's lifespan. The DMP ensures that all data adhere to international standards and best practices, guaranteeing their quality, accessibility, and long-term preservation. It outlines procedures for data storage, backup, and sharing, utilizing a combination of the IOPAN Data Centre and international data repositories and data integrators on the EU and global level. The project prioritizes free and open access to data, aligning with the principles of Open Science and the Five Star Open Data Model. This commitment enhances data discoverability and utility for a broad range of users, including researchers, policymakers, and the public. By integrating with major global and European ocean observing systems, the SEA-Quester project ensures that its data contribute to a larger framework of environmental monitoring and research. The effective implementation of the DMP, under the coordination of a dedicated Data Manager, supports the project's goals of advancing scientific knowledge on polar ecosystems and their role in the global climate system. This strategy not only aids in achieving the project's scientific objectives but also provides a robust foundation for future research and policy development in the context of rapidly changing polar environments. The DMP will be regularly updated according to the project developments and consortium needs, and shared with stakeholders, including policymakers and the scientific community, to support international assessments and policy-making. A revision log has been added to track these updates in a transparent manner.