The sustained global ocean observing system for climate

The sustained global ocean observing system for climate is designed to provide data and information products for

• Climate monitoring and forecasting
• Climate assessment
• Climate research

It is also the foundation for global operational oceanography, including global weather prediction and marine forecasting, global and coastal ocean prediction and marine environmental monitoring.

Recommendations for elements of the system were developed in wide consultation with the ocean observing community, where measurements can be made with proven technology (the errors in the sensors are well-understood) and where global coverage is feasible. These recommendations are documented in two reports to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Strong links with research programs need to be maintained, for data collection, observing system evaluation, new technology to improve the system, and so that the observing system can respond to new scientific questions.

Explore the links at left to learn more about elements of the global ocean observing system for climate.

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