Introduction to the European Metrology Network for Climate and Ocean Observation

Introduction to the European Metrology Network for Climate and Ocean Observation

“We are living at a unique point in history: earlier generations did not fully understand the impacts humanity has on the environment, and in 20 years’ time it will probably be too late to solve our problems. Right now, the evidence is clear and it’s not too late to do something about it.” Emma Woolliams, acting Chair of the European Metrology Network (EMN) for Climate and Ocean Observation, believes that Europe needs to lead globally with evidence-based policy: using our scientific understanding of the climate and the state of the oceans to inform policy.

There are 54 defined “essential climate variables” and 11 additional “essential ocean variables” that climate modellers and oceanographers tell us they need for the models that can support politicians’ decision-making.  “Any action that tackles climate change is expensive, so we rely on model predictions to choose which actions to take. But, the people who measure climate variables often face difficulties with getting them to the required accuracy,” says Emma. The kind of measurements she’s referring to can also allow people to make good decisions in their own lives: instead of just throwing fertiliser across the whole field, a farmer can now see from satellite images which parts need fertiliser and which just need more water.