Assessing biological variables is a relative newcomer to the field of ocean observing, and an increasingly critical component of a comprehensive, sustainable system. In this webinar, recorded on May 8, representatives from the core team working to create a globally coordinated and sustained ocean observing system offer an comprehensive overview of the initiative, highlighting agreements that ensure use of the best available resources, compatibility between outputs, and advice going forward.

The Biology and Ecosystems Panel of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS BioEco), the Marine Biodiversity Observation Network (MBON) of the Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEOBON), and the Ocean Biogeographic Information System (OBIS), share a common vision to build such a system. It will build off the existing system for physical ocean data, and the process includes identifying essential ocean variables, implementing best practices and international standards, and enhancing global capacity. Delivering the resulting information through an open access, integrated and quality controlled database will support relevant science and societal needs.

Check out a recording of the webinar on YouTube, and review and access the presentations here.