GCOS Implementation Plan - WMO

Implementation Plan for the Global Observing System for Climate in Support of the UNFCCC
(2010 Update)
5.5.2. Global-scale Observation Capabilities
A number of new or improved sensors and platforms will become available for sustained observations
within the next 5 to 10 years. Ocean technology is making rapid progress in observing ocean
variables that could be accurately measured only in the laboratory until a few years ago, or could not
be measured at all. Some of the new sensors are already in research use on moorings and other
autonomous deployments. Further technology development and research are necessary for some
variables of long-standing importance but limited present feasibility, even if payoff may not be
achieved in the desired time. In addition, advances are needed in telecommunications and are likely
to become widely available in the near future.
Research programmes are currently the primary source of funding for developing new methods and
technologies. Continued strong support is needed to develop and bring new technology into pilot
project use and then into sustained use in the oceanic climate observing system.
Action O41 [IP-04 O3]
Action: Promote and facilitate research and development (new improved technologies in
particular), in support of the global ocean observing system for climate.
Who: Parties’ national ocean research programmes and space agencies, in cooperation with
GOOS, GCOS, and WCRP.
Time-Frame: Continuing.
Performance Indicator: More cost-effective and efficient methods and networks; strong research
efforts related to the observing system; number of additional ECVs feasible for sustained
observation; improved utility of ocean climate products.
Annual Cost Implications: 30-100M US$ (10% in non-Annex-I Parties).
Ocean climate product development will advance rapidly if adequately supported. Collaboration with
ongoing global research programmes (e.g., WCRP, IGBP) and fisheries/ecosystem programmes must
be fostered. The following list is meant to be illustrative of areas requiring research and technology
development:
• Satellite observations with higher resolution and accuracy and more spectral bands than available
from the current generation of polar-orbiting and geostationary satellites; improved capability for
ocean colour observations in optically-complex (e.g., coastal and turbid waters) and freshwater
systems; improved interpretation of sea-ice data from satellites; satellite measurement of salinity.
• Observing system evaluation and design, including improvements in air-sea flux
parameterizations.
• Improvements in ocean platforms, including increased capabilities for Argo floats; improved
‘Gliders’ technology 88 and mooring technology.
• New development in ocean sensors and systems, including improved bio-fouling protection,
autonomous water sampling systems, new and miniaturization of optical and acoustic systems,
airborne variable sensors, and two-way, low-cost, low-power telecommunications.
• New and improved capability to study marine genomics and measure biogeochemical variables,
nutrients, and dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide, as well as to identify organisms.
• Improved instruments, including near-surface current meters, in-water radiometers, sensors for
air-sea interface variables and turbulent fluxes, and VOS sensor systems.
6. TERRESTRIAL CLIMATE OBSERVING SYSTEM
6.1. General
The terrestrial part of the climate system provides human beings with important resources such as
food, fibre, forest products, and water. At the same time, variability and changes of the hydrological
and biogeochemical cycles are coupled with the climate system and affect the livelihood of millions of
people. The primary way in which the terrestrial domain features in climate variability and change is
through changes in water storage, carbon storage, and other influences and by way of feedbacks due
to changes in land cover and the cryosphere. Precipitation, evapotranspiration, groundwater, soil
88 Profiling floats with a positioning capability achieved by directional gliding.
103