Blueprint for an integrated Atlantic Ocean Observing System

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1 Blueprint for an integrated Atlantic Ocean Observing System Internationally, ocean observation has primarily been coordinated through the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) cosponsored by IOC-UNESCO, ICSU and WMO. GOOS is also a contribution to the Blue Planet initiative of GEO and benefits from and is supported by numerous other national and international programs and projects. GOOS and its partners are working to develop and implement effective ocean observing capacities and trying to manage and if possible minimize the complexity of the current systems. In 1999 and 2009 the global ocean observing community has come together to share and articulate its global and integrated ambition for ocean observing. The next OceanObs Meeting is planned for fall 2019 in Hawaii. There is therefore a strong rationale to develop a strategy for integrated ocean observing in the Atlantic Sector. The overarching goal is to facilitate a more sustainable, well-coordinated and more comprehensive ocean observing system to jointly deliver relevant ocean information for a wide range of societal benefit areas spanning ocean change, near real time ocean state estimation, ocean prediction and base line information to support sustainable ocean use. The Blueprint for an integrated Atlantic Ocean Observing System should go beyond the state-of the-art and provides a vision for Atlantic Ocean observing in the next decade. It should integrate existing ocean observing activities into a sustainable, efficient, and fit-for-purpose system. The observing system should be ambitious, multi-national, multisectoral and purposeful but not prescriptive. It must include capacity development and emphasize the role of resource mobilization for observations of the entire Atlantic Ocean. The system should support and enhance new partnerships between science, service, private sector and civil society. The Blueprint Team will develop simultaneously two related documents: A) A shorter version (~ 20 pages) and B) A longer document (~ pages) A rough timeline for the work is: By the end of September (22th September 2017) first version for each section of a long version (10 pages with draft figures and boxes) and a short version (2 pages) Early 2018 openly release first public draft of the short version for comments and feedback. Summer of 2018 release first public draft of full document for comments and feedback.

2 1. Vision for Integrated Atlantic Observing in 2030 Authors: Brad de Young, Albert Fischer, Martin Visbeck, Janice Trotte Duhá The principles and objectives for the Integrated Atlantic Observing. Overarching need for an Atlantic focus and consideration Sustainable for all partners: research, governmental, private sector, public Developed on existing systems for operation and governance (e.g. GOOS) Purposeful but not prescriptive Developed on named principles Flexible, interoperable, integrative Multi-institutional, multi-sector, multi disciplinary Defined benefits of integration disciplines, nations, ecosystems, networks Integrated and transparent data flow, data analysis and information generation Includes both operational and research systems Model supported design studies of selected observing targets (incl. observing networks of multiple platforms in situ, satellite) Optimized integration between in situ, and remotely sensed observations Multinational integration thematic and geographic (coastal to open ocean) Discussion structured along GOOS themes Operational, Health, Climate need to consider other aspects MSP, e.g. wind farms and other kinds of development, need greater clarity 2. Assessing Requirements for Ocean Observing Authors: Albert Fischer, Erik Buch, Toste Tanhua, Janice Trotte Duhá, Pedro Monteiro, Michael Ott The aim of this section is to align requirements with users and what is essential. The themes as expressed in the Vision section will be considered. Regional, national and international requirements for ocean information - Ocean Change (and Health) - Ocean and Climate - Ocean Biodiversity and Habitats - Ocean Pollution - Ocean and Food production - Ocean and non renewable resources - Ocean Services to transport and other ocean operations - Consider sustainable development goals 2

3 Build upon Framework for Ocean Observing and analysis of Essential Ocean Variables - Feasibility and Impact - Time and spatial scales - Analyse Atlantic Observing following GOOS Operational, Health, Climate themes - Must provide value and follow value chain Requires transparency of analysis, design and implementation 3. System analysis and design Authors: Molly Baringer, Glenn Nolan, Gabrielle Canonico-Hyde Analysis and design of the observing systems. The aim is to develop explicit approaches to improve and test design both before and throughout the life of the observing systems. This section requires both - formal, i.e. analytical, and informal, i.e. socio-economics, approaches.. Not just about numerical model exercises Conceptual as well as analytical Observing system evaluation (OSEval) Observing system Simulation Experiments (OSSE) Using models to help design and assess performance of observing systems Develop approaches to include partner and community involvement in analysis and design Bridging coastal to open ocean (consideration of nesting) 4. Ocean Observing networks description, current status and future potential Authors: Glenn Nolan, Moacyr Araujo, José Henrique Muelbert, Martin Edwards, Pedro Monteiro Needs to refer back to the requirements considerations, linkage should be transparent. Characteristics of the observing system have to be answered: What is measured? Is the observing system part of a GOOS network or GRA? Is it linked to GOOS strategic mapping and EOV process? Who uses the data/information? Are they national assets? Describe and define roles of Networks and links to users Platforms and Essential Ocean Variables link Continuous monitoring of observing array (incl. risk analysis) JCOMM Ops or JCOMM OCG Report Card (+other metrics if available) 3

4 Status, gaps, challenges, coordination: Strengths, weaknesses, main EOVs measured, opportunities and threats of each network/observing platform including: (link to sustainability and governance chapters is needed) - Ship based observing - Fixed station observing - Autonomous observing - Remote sensing systems - Integrated coverage - Animal borne instrumentation Alignment challenges between differing networks: input from JCOMM OCG (David Legler) and other inputs. Strategy to incorporate observations currently outside GOOS networks; Enhance and optimise existing infrastructures and networks. Link to near shore and coastal observing: input from WP4 in AtlantOS (are other examples exist. Potential for basin-scale networking: GOOS Regional Alliances (are other examples exist?). Link to some networks described above that act basin-scale (e.g. Argo, SOOP, OTN, Global Alliance of CPR surveys (GACs)). Examples Products and services derived from the observing system Real time services: Coastal inundation Tourism/Recreation: coastal sea state Ocean health: Harmful Algal blooms Climate: Sea level rise Ecosystem change: animal displacement 5. Data management and flow Authors: Toste Tanhua, Sylvie Pouliquen, José Henrique Muelbert Atlantic Data system as a "Data System of Data Systems" (Network and Integrators in the WP7 figure + TOOL boxes ) - Data work flows and management including interoperability requirements and tools to enhance and ensure data flow and sharing - Data access and sharing ensure open and supported access (FAIR principles) - Include archival, storage - Potential of emerging IT technologies (Big Data...) (The green Arrow in the WP7 figure) 4

5 Develop/Maintain standards and best practices recommendations and ensure best practice procedures are known and followed (The red arrow is the WP7 figure) - Metadata standardization - Smart sensors potential - Data quality management quality analysis (QA) and quality control (QC) International coordination and data system authority? Product development EOV driven (Services to users in the WP7 figure) 6. Integration Synthesis and Analysis Authors: Gabrielle Canonico-Hyde, Glenn Nolan, Brad de Young, Pierre-Yves Le Traon Key issues to be addressed in the chapter: How does ocean modeling, analysis and prediction complement observational and data management activities of an ocean observing system? - Basin scale modeling - Coastal modeling - Use of models to interpret data to create added value, produce new information - Integrate across scales (temporal, spatial, taxonomic) for prediction and forecasting Reasons for data standardization and integration - Application to models - Utility of data assimilation for hindcasts, nowcasts and forecasts - Integration of different data types (e.g. biological with physical or biogeochemical) - Integration of similar data types collected using different methodologies Data assimilation from different Atlantic observing systems - Must draw from nested networks and differing model types such as climate and other operational models - Linking different model prediction systems (atmosphere, wave models, biological, physical, etc.) - Use of both downscaling and upscaling techniques to improve models and local and basin scale Importance of coordination among groups in the North and South Atlantic - Need for application of common, standardized data sets - Role of intercomparison of model-based basin and coastal estimates using standardized metrics - Capacity building to develop modeling capabilities where they are currently under-developed 5

6 Model validation linked to research to improve models, understanding of data, and system design and operation Examples Where do we use models to create new information? - Calculating heat transports from temperature and velocity data Integrated Ecosystem Assessment Climate Vulnerability Assessment MPA Condition Reporting Coastal inundation (particular focus in developing countries and Small Island Development States) 7. User driven products from an Atlantic Observing System Authors: Eleanor O Rourke, Erik Buch, Isabel Sousa Pinto, Filomena Vaz Velho, Pedro Monteiro Product development driven by user needs/requirements (reference to Chapter 2: Assessing Requirements for Ocean Observing) - distinguish between products for climate, operational services and ocean ecosystem functioning and health Co-development of products with users - regular product iterations allowing for progressive end user engagement and product development rather than traditional top down approach Product value chain analysis to map path from observations to intermediate products and final services/products and determination of impact. Infrastructures required for product development - identification of infrastructure/capacity gaps and barriers Integration of data flows into product development (reference to Chapter 5: Data Flows) - related to end user and stakeholder engagement and also interaction with other observing systems Capacity building/knowledge exchange required for product development - examples from other fields e.g. climate services development Identification of delivery pathways and how reliability and sustainability can be addressed - regional information systems, support for developing nations Examples Storm surge and tsunami warnings: Many coastal regions face threats from storm surges and tsunamis. User communities such as the emergency services depend on expert warning systems based on tide gauge and offshore pressure data together with model forecasts validated by such in situ measurements. 6

7 Safety and security: Safety for operations at sea, navigation support, search and rescue, aquaculture and energy industry support and oil spills requiring detailed information on waves, currents, temperature and wind to support nowcasting and forecasting. Climate: The oceans are an important component of the climate system and understanding of the climate system and its many processes as well as predicting the changes in the climate rely on long time series of sustained physical, chemical and biological measurements. We could focus on changes in Atlantic Overturning (Thermohaline circulation) as an example that has a variety of effects on weather, living conditions, marine ecosystem and requires deep ocean observing. Ocean Health: The ocean ecosystems are under severe pressure from a myriad of anthropogenic drivers and therefore improved monitoring and understanding will support improved decision making and guide specific measures to improve ecosystem functioning, as well as their impact. This is relevant to the sustainable management of all biological resources (fisheries/aquaculture, blue biotech, materials), as well as other ecosystem services as tourism (clean water is dependent on ecosystems). 8. Innovative system development Authors: Brad de Young, Gabrielle Canonico-Hyde, Isabel Sousa Pinto, Matt Mowlem Define role for and benefits from innovation Innovation includes technology development, operational deployment, information sharing and governance All aspects of the Observational Systems require and benefit from innovation Identify challenges requiring innovation and look towards opportunities, look to examples mentioned elsewhere in the document Make the timeliness argument we have the capability both in technology and management structures Make links to the Blue Economy both for the active involvement (e.g. technology development) and also the beneficial impact of an effective observing system (e.g. transportation, fisheries, offshore development, coastal recreational use) Consider more than just hardware Information issues new approaches to getting data e.g. citizen science and communication Some review readiness of existing technology - Technology/Data Collection/Information Sensor Innovation note recent developments, flexibility of use Platform Innovation (endurance, data access in particular near-real time) Data processing innovation; Data analysis and synthesis Information delivery, communications enhancements, enhanced remote access apps and such 7

8 Governance structures and new cooperative arrangements Use of citizen science for data collection 9. Governance, Partnerships and Capacity Building Authors: Martin Visbeck, Brad de Young, Jan-Stefan Fritz, Toste Tanhua, Albert Fischer, Filomena Vaz Velho, Moacyr Auraujo, Pierre-Yves Le Traon Governance Identify how to manage the observing system Consider existing governance structures work from the present and develop ideas of existing systems [e.g. taking a look at Global Ocean/Climate Observing System (GOOS/GCOS)] Look to the existing regional alliances and review strengths and weaknesses Consider a hierarchical approach local-regional-basin-scale Consider the capacity development, because it is more than just north south and/or community building Partnerships Define opportunities for synergy, new partnerships, new user groups - Opportunities for growth and expansion - Next generation personnel - Opportunities for citizen science - Private sector shipping, fisheries, offshore sector, Show the effectiveness and value of existing networks - Connections to BluePlanet, MBON, GEO Demonstrate the different possibilities of partnerships / connect different communities to encourage working together - Develop a guidance for regions - National, international, institutional and private sector (oil and gas, shipping, fisheries ) Training to develop receptor capacity (on both sides) e.g. through partnerships Sponsors Identify how to fund the system - Requires national engagement with clearly defined roles - Regional and international institutions (like the EU or UN) should be considered as well - Private Sector Looking for examples where they already contribute or define opportunities where they might in the future Identify who are our target groups and why they should support an Integrated Atlantic Ocean Observing System, need to link their needs with observational capabilities to identify where benefits could develop - Societal Benefits - NGOs like WWF? 8

9 - (Information) Products Examples Examples clarify roles and responsibilities and should show what the weaknesses are and what we can learn for developing an ocean observing system GOOS - could be an example for an alliance that has governmental support but the funding structure is confusing Regional alliances brought together into GOOS umbrella (Galway or Belem statements) strengths and weaknesses ARGO voluntary commitment model, consider the evolution and development of BioArgo (The Global Drifter Program) Weather community there is a somewhat related example, what does that tell us about the challenges and the possibilities, also leads to a very different overall ICES and Regional fisheries management organisations (RMFOs - e.g. ICCAT Tuna, NEAFC/NAFO & SEAFO stock management) GEO Blue Planet MBON system 10. Sustainability challenges and opportunities of ocean observing Authors: Jan-Stefan Fritz, Michael Ott, José Henrique Muelbert, Martin Edwards, Erik Buch Note the many challenges to the financial and institutional sustainability of ocean observing systems Note that long-term ocean observations have survived over many decades because they have been closely aligned with policy requirements, most initiatives are financed through research project funding or other short-term means Financial sustainability of a comprehensive system of ocean observing networks will require that, while each may remain independent, together they are embedded in long value-chains from the in situ collection of data all the way to societal and commercial ends Along the value chain relevant actors will need to be motivated to participate on a voluntary basis Address the issue of capital vs. operational expenditures so that technology be both acquired and operated over the longer-term Institutional framework needs to include the myriad observation stations and technologies as well as offer a clear conceptual, institutional and programmatic framework Build a community by encouraging content-oriented foresight processes Ensure an adequate economic assessment of the value-added of investing in ocean observing for funding and participating bodies in the Atlantic Ocean observing system Strengthen human capacities through scientific education and technical training in all matters related to the development, implementation, operation and use of different technologies, platforms and information systems 9

10 Support funding bodies in their decision-making processes, a toolbox with a range of financial options to supporting ocean observing will be developed Maintain an overview of all financial and in-kind contributions to ocean observing, a table of all contributions will be created Secure sustainable funding for ocean observing in the Atlantic Ocean, a plan of action to encourage voluntary contributions will be formulated and implemented Maintain a list of ongoing and planned observation initiatives so as to provide both funders and the observation community an overview of all activities. This will be done by JCOMMOPS Annex: Table of Contributions to ocean observing Country Institutional sponsor Name of observing programme, project, infrastructure, etc. Main aim and or contribution of the effort Regional focus/foci Thematic focus/foci Contribution to SDG implementation Time frame of guaranteed funding Potential future developments with specific time line 10

The Framework for Ocean Observing: Best Practices for the Global Observing System

The Framework for Ocean Observing: Best Practices for the Global Observing System My apologies for not attending. I would love to be there! Some temporary health issues have prevented me from travelling.