Development of an artificial intelligence (AI) marine scientific research model: The case of marine science and technology policy and its legitimate practice in Taiwan

Abstract

This study explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), marine science, and legal governance in Taiwan, with the project Development and Application of Marine Exploration and Ecological Survey Technologies under Climate Change as a case study. It highlights Taiwan's integration of AI into biodiversity monitoring, underwater exploration, and environmental analysis, while addressing legal challenges in intellectual property, data protection, and national security. A governance model was developed to enhance the legality, security, and credibility of marine datasets through data collection policies, legitimating measures, and inspection protocols. Comparative insights from the EU, United States, Japan, and Korea stress the need for Taiwan to refine AI policies, strengthen cross-agency coordination, and align with international frameworks, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) and the Ocean Decade. Taiwan's experience provides a replicable prototype for emerging maritime AI nations, linking innovation with legal compliance and sustainable ocean governance.