Enhancing Biogeochemical Essential Ocean Variables for European and Global Assessments

• Forschungsstelle: SBFI
• Projektnummer: 25.00153

Abstract (Englisch)

Changes and variability in ocean biogeochemistry are poorly observed despite its profound impacts on ocean ecosystems and associatedservices, and sensitivity to and for climate. The overall aim of BioGeoSea is to significantly close the research and knowledge gaps onbiogeochemical Essential Ocean Variables (BGC EOVs), validate them in-situ and in models, and use them to feed ocean metrics inthe form of indicators and data products that reflect their relevance to the society. This aim includes updating EOVs requirements andspecifications to enhance their usefulness in providing ocean biogeochemistry indicators, which BioGeoSea will develop and deliver.These indicators will reflect different spatial and temporal scales, and be focused around: 1) ocean acidification; 2) ocean deoxygenation3) the biological carbon pump; and 4) greenhouse gas fluxes. BioGeoSea will: 1) improve the requirement setting of BGC EOVs; 2)Improve the observational capability of BGC EOVs over a large range of temporal and spatial scales; 3) Provide better representationof biogeochemical processes in models and more accurate predictions; 4) Improve ocean BGC data products that are invaluable tounderstand complex ocean phenomena; 5) Deliver ocean BGC indicators and engage actively with stakeholders. Key results will becommunicated to international networks and entities for endorsement, approval and efficient dissemination of the outcomes. This projectwill help to better observe and deliver biogeochemical ocean data and information, and ultimately advance our understanding about oceanhealth and its role in climate regulation. BioGeoSea will demonstrate the importance of long-term observations of the ocean, focusingon BGC EOVs. The quality of information from all BGC EOVs will be improved, and four innovative BGC indicators will be delivered,at a technological readiness level that responds to the needs of an economically viable and healthy society