The Programme’s approach for piloting and refining co-design processes is to work through an initial set of Exemplar Projects. These projects will contribute to developing best practices and tools for observing system design that integrates evaluation and user feedback. The outcome will be a framework for ongoing observing system co-design that will provide the most benefit for society and cost-benefit for investors by supporting an integrated, agile, impactful and sustainably funded infrastructure for ocean observing.
Exemplar projects
The Exemplar Projects are user-focused and will be developed by identifying key stakeholders, projects, needs in the underlying infrastructure, and ways that groups across communities can interact to co-design an integrated and responsive ocean observing system. The collaborative work will involve end-users, modellers and observation operators.
The Ocean Carbon Cycle
Improving carbon data to inform climate targets, such as net zero
To aim for net zero, it is essential to measure and report on ocean carbon uptake. A global ocean carbon observing network co-designed with key government users will provide an integrated view so that ocean carbon is counted alongside atmospheric accumulation and fossil fuel emissions, to better inform emission reduction targets and assess feasibility of carbon dioxide removal strategies.
Tropical Cyclones
Advancing tropical cyclone forecasting to save lives and property
Tropical cyclone impacts are amplified by a warming ocean and rising sea levels, and disproportionately affect less developed countries and small island developing states. Enhancing ocean observing to improve forecasts and warnings will save lives and property, as well as promote equity and resiliency.
Marine Life
Sustaining development and conservation of living marine resources
Few communities have access to the information they need regarding marine life to support sustainable development and conserve marine biodiversity. We will engage communities, indigenous peoples, industry and governments, in developing and developed nations, to understand their needs and establish trusted and sustained flows of information about ecological baselines, status, and forecasts.
Storm Surge
Improving storm surge predictions to minimise impacts on vulnerable communities and natural resources
Sufficient lead-time and accuracy in forecasting storm surge is critical to minimise impacts on natural and human resources and assets. Forecasting capabilities will be developed at the local level for vulnerable communities.
Marine Heatwaves
Monitoring marine heatwave impacts on biodiversity and economies
Global sustained monitoring of marine heatwaves and their impacts on marine biodiversity and coastal communities will support effective ocean management and ensure food security, protected areas management, tourism, climate and weather services.
Boundary Currents
Observing key current systems
Boundary currents are critical drivers of the global climate system and fisheries productivity. Observing these key current systems will support search and rescue services, Marine Protected Area management, wind energy development, fisheries, tourism, shipping and weather forecasts.
Where next?
Ocean Observing Co-Design Supporter Forums
Join the Supporter Forums to be part of this exciting initiative.
The Forums will take place in November 2022 – February 2023.
Contact: m.o-donovan@unesco.org
- Supporter Forums
- Initial Co-Design Workshop