PNNL

Abstract

Purpose: This paper discusses an ongoing process to assist with the advancement of worldwide understanding of the environmental effects of marine renewable energy (MRE) through a public, online knowledge management system known as Tethys (https://tethys.pnnl.gov). Understanding potential environmental impacts can reduce expensive monitoring requirements and promote growth of this emerging industry. Approach: Tethys acts as the central repository for information in a landscape where literature and knowledge are scattered and difficult to find, providing access for an international audience of stakeholders and the public. An intuitive and flexible design has been developed over 8 years of operation, pairing content curation with synthesis and engagement to enhance the impact of knowledge management. Findings: Tethys has become internationally recognized and trusted as an honest broker of information. A community of participants that use Tethys resources and contributes content has grown to almost 50,000 people around the world, annually. Engineering and siting challenges continue to stall the deployment and establishment of the MRE industry, but progress has been made towards retiring environmental risks and facilitating progression in deploying and operating devices. Practical Implications: The need for knowledge management is particularly important when information is scattered, as is often the case with emerging industries. Tethys serves as an example of intentional design and intuitive organization for knowledge management. Value of Paper: This paper discusses focused knowledge management methods with international cooperation and public engagement to advance an emerging technical industry.