intergovernmental oceanographic commission (of unesco) · observation data and immediate...

INTERGOVERNMENTAL OCEANOGRAPHIC COMMISSION (of UNESCO)

BRIEFING ON THE EARTH OBSERVATION SUMMIT AND ASSOCIATED MEETINGS

To: IOC Member States

14 October 2003

(SC-2003/WS/65)

SUMMARY

The Earth Observation Summit (EOS) was organised by the Government of United States in Washington DC, on 30 July–2 August 2003. The purpose of the summit was to “Promote the development of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems among governments and the international community to understand and address global environmental and economic challenges.” The Summit launched “a process to develop a conceptual framework and implementation plan for building this comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.” (Quoted from official documents of the EOS)

In the framework of the Earth Observation Summit, a Ministerial Earth Observation Summit was hosted by US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, Secretary of Energy, Spencer Abraham, and Secretary of Commerce, Donald Evans, in Washington DC on 31 July 2003. The Summit participants consisted of 33 invited national delegations and observer representation by the Executive Heads or senior representatives of 21 international organizations and programmes. The Summit was preceded by an Informal Consultative Meeting on 30 July to finalise the text of the Summit Declaration and followed, on 1-2 August, by the inaugural meeting of an ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) established by the Summit.

The Summit Declaration calls for an international effort to move towards a comprehensive, coordinated and sustained Earth observation system (or systems), full observation data and immediate preparation of a 10-year Implementation Plan built on this initiative. Through their Declaration participants to the EOS also invite the governing bodies of international and regional organisations sponsoring existing Earth observing systems to endorse and support their action. The inaugural meeting of the GEO set in place the necessary follow-up machinery with a view to prepare a framework document in time for a Tokyo ministerial conference on Earth observations in the second quarter of 2004 and a complete plan in time for a further ministerial conference to be hosted by the European Union during the fourth quarter of 2004.

In my view the GEO initiative should be seen as a promissory international forum useful to help developing countries building capacities to use Observation Systems as an instrument of progress. UNESCO and IOC should be fully aware of this development and should take part in the development of such initiative, not only but first because of the role that being an UN organisation we have on one of the key components of global observing systems: the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS).

As IOC Executive Secretary I was invited to participate in the Ministerial Summit (31 July 2003) and contributed a short note on “Earth Observations for Knowledge and for Development: The Global Ocean Observing System”. This

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contribution and the most relevant documents of the Summit are compiled in this document for your attention.

This briefing document provides essential information on the background and forecasted developments of GEO. For information, the Second Meeting of the Ad Hoc Group on Earth Observations, (GEO-2) is scheduled to be held in Baveno, Italy next 28–29 November 2003 and will be followed by a second ministerial conference in May 2004 in Tokyo.

Patricio Bernal

Assistant Director-General, UNESCO Executive Secretary, IOC

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ANNEXES

page A. Background

A1. Science and technology for sustainable development: A G-8 action plan ....... 5

A2. Earth Observation Summit Declaration ........................................................... 6

A3. IOC Contribution to EOS: Earth Observations for Knowledge and for Development: The Global Ocean Observing System ........................................ 7

A4. GEO-1 meeting summary................................................................................ 11 B. Terms of Reference and Structure

B1. GEO Terms of Reference and composition ................................................... 17

B2. Terms of Reference of the GEO Subgroups and their composition: a. GEO Subgroup on International Cooperation........................................ 21 b. GEO Subgroup on Data Utilization ....................................................... 24 c. GEO Subgroup on Capacity Building.................................................... 27 d. GEO Subgroup on Architecture ............................................................. 30 e. GEO Subgroup on User Requirements and Outreach............................ 33

B3. GEO secretariat .............................................................................................. 36

B4. GEO structure.................................................................................................. 37

C. A working basis for GEO-2

C1. Annotated Draft Framework Outline (1 October 2003).................................. 39

C2. Timeline ......................................................................................................... 45

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A1. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT A G8 ACTION PLAN

Evian Summit, 1–3 June 2003

[Abstract]

We recognise the need, as acknowledged in the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) Plan of Implementation, to support the development of cleaner, sustainable and more efficient technologies. Co-operative scientific research on transformational technologies offers potential to improve public health by cutting pollution and reduce greenhouse emissions to address the challenge of global climate change. Our countries must optimise the use of natural resources including through recycling.

We will focus our efforts on three areas that present great opportunities for progress: co-ordination of global observation strategies; cleaner, sustainable and more efficient energy use; agricultural sustainability, productivity and biodiversity conservation.

In undertaking these activities, we are committed to working co-operatively with other developed countries. We are conscious that, to meet the objectives of the WSSD, developing countries and countries with economies in transition need to build and strengthen their capacity to assimilate and generate knowledge for sustainable development. We reaffirm our commitment made at the WSSD to assist them through international co-operation in enhancing their research capacities.

1. Strengthen international co-operation on global observation

We will:

1.1 Develop close co-ordination of our respective global observation strategies for the next ten years; identify new observations to minimise data gaps;

1.2 Build on existing work to produce reliable data products on atmosphere, land, fresh water, oceans and ecosystems;

1.3 Improve the world-wide reporting and archiving of these data and fill observational gaps of coverage in existing systems;

1.4 Favour interoperability with reciprocal data-sharing;

1.5 Develop an implementation plan to achieve these objectives by next spring's Tokyo ministerial conference.

[…] 2 June 2003 Full document available at: http://www.g8.fr/evian/english/navigation/2003_g8_summit/summit_documents/science_and_technology_for_sustainable_development_-_a_g8_action_plan.html

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A2. DECLARATION OF THE EARTH OBSERVATION SUMMIT

We, the participants in this Earth Observation Summit held in Washington, DC, on July 31, 2003: Recalling the World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg that called for strengthened cooperation and coordination among global observing systems and research programmes for integrated global observations; Recalling also the outcome of the G-8 Summit held in Evian that called for strengthened international cooperation on global observation of the environment; Noting the vital importance of the mission of organizations engaged in Earth observation activities and their contribution to national, regional and global needs; Affirm the need for timely, quality, long-term, global information as a basis for sound decision making. In order to monitor continuously the state of the Earth, to increase understanding of dynamic Earth processes, to enhance prediction of the Earth system, and to further implement our environmental treaty obligations, we recognize the need to support: (1) Improved coordination of strategies and systems for observations of the Earth and identification of measures to minimize data gaps, with a view to moving toward a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems; (2) A coordinated effort to involve and assist developing countries in improving and sustaining their contributions to observing systems, as well as their access to and effective utilization of observations, data and products, and the related technologies by addressing capacity-building needs related to Earth observations; (3) The exchange of observations recorded from in situ, aircraft, and satellite networks, dedicated to the purposes of this Declaration, in a full and open manner with minimum time delay and minimum cost, recognizing relevant international instruments and national policies and legislation; and (4) Preparation of a 10-year Implementation Plan, building on existing systems and initiatives, with the Framework being available by the Tokyo ministerial conference on Earth observations to be held during the second quarter of 2004, and the Plan being available by the ministerial conference to be hosted by the European Union during the fourth quarter of 2004. To effect these objectives, we establish an ad hoc Group on Earth Observations and commission the group to proceed, taking into account the existing activities aimed at developing a global observing strategy in addressing the above. We invite other governments to join us in this initiative. We also invite the governing bodies of international and regional organizations sponsoring existing Earth observing systems to endorse and support our action, and to facilitate participation of their experts in implementing this Declaration. (Adopted 31 July 2003)

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A3. IOC Contribution to EOS

Earth Observations for Knowledge and for Development: The Global Ocean Observing System.

Patricio A. Bernal Executive Secretary Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Assistant Director-General UNESCO 1 rue Miollis 75732 Paris, CEDEX 15 France [email protected] phone: +331 4568 3983 fax: +331 4568 5810 There are two main drivers for building an integrated observing system of the Planet. The first and more fundamental one is to obtain the knowledge about the natural systems that make life possible on the surface of the planet. The second one is to improve the performance of all the human activities that impact the natural systems of the planet. Knowledge is connected directly with science, the understanding of the systems and their response to the perturbations imposed on them by the development of modern civilization. The use of the new information through applications is related to development.

This second aspect of global observations is at the core of “sustainable development”. The implementation of sustainable development strategies requires improving the management of human activities and their interaction with the natural environment. This process is science-based and requires of the best technology available. At least twice during the second half of the XX century, there were initiatives to turn the best technologies of the time to look at our own planet: to discover and conquer the inner space. It is an interesting paradox that in both occasions the political commitment went towards the exploration of outer space. There is no question of the huge benefits that space exploration has provided to humanity, however the reluctance to undertake a major effort to explore and monitor all the planetary systems affecting our environment, stands as a testimony of the limits of our collective foresight.

We urgently need to turn our science and technology inward to look at our own planet. Despite our late reaction, by so doing we shall acquire a wealth of knowledge that can make our interaction with nature a more knowledgeable, friendly and beneficial to humankind.

The integrated character of the system we are building is essential. We need to integrate across the land, the ocean and the atmosphere, avoiding unnecessary duplications. But most importantly we need to integrate space-based information with improved in-situ instrumental networks. The ocean is “opaque” to electromagnetic radiation. Some

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measurements from space reflect accurately properties from a very thin layer of the ocean the so-called “skin”, few micrometers thick. Most of the space-based observations of the ocean depend on the extrapolation of the observed surface properties, to the vast volume of the Ocean. This extrapolation is inherently uncertain and inaccurate. We need to observe the ocean directly using the new technologies that are available.

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, as the focal point of the UN for coordinating Ocean Science and the development of Ocean Services, has been engaged in the development of the Global Ocean Observing System, GOOS. The part of GOOS dealing with the physics of the ocean is the ocean component of the climate observing system that is responding to call made by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. We have help to develop a wide scientific consensus of what are the in situ and space based observations that are needed to start collecting the information to answer the main questions about climate change and climate variability. This consensus is reflected in Figure 1, as a ten-year program for the deployment of a minimum system that satisfies the main requirements. FIGURE 1

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2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 20062005 2007 2008 2009 2010

Tide GaugesOperational GPS/DORISStations

Surface Drifting Buoys

Tropical Moored Buoys

Ships of Opportunity

Argo Floats

Reference Stations

Coastal Moorings

System Evaluation

Ocean Carbon Network

Dedicated Ship Time

High resolution and frequentlyrepeated lines occupied

Number of floats

Number of moorings

Number of buoys

Days at sea (NOAA contribution)

Product evaluation andfeedback loops implemented

Number of flux sites/lines,One inventory per 10 years

Number of flux moorings

Moorings with climate sensors

807 671 779 810

200 310 544

1 2 6 7 10

0 150 0 0 40

14 16 18 20

0 1 1 1

7748 94 1001009988Total System 30 34 40 44

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 20062005 2007 2008 2009 2010

System % Complete

3 4

The Ten-Year Plan for In-situ Observations

GOOS will enlarge its current scope focused mainly on the dynamics of the ocean, to incorporate the continuous monitoring of the chemical and biological environments of the Ocean especially close to the coasts.

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It is important to look at the Earth Observing System in all its dimensions and the economic one is fundamental.

The main feature of global observations is the very large scale at which they are collected. In the oceans, at each spatial and temporal scale there are specific properties that are related to that scale and others that “spill-over” to other scales. In theory, full forecasting capabilities would be available only if all scales are properly sampled. This is a huge technical requirement. In GOOS, what is a local observation collected in the East Coast of North America, becomes a “remote and distant” observation for a forecast in the North Sea, and vice-versa. If one wishes to extend weather forecast in the North America from 6 days to two weeks, information collected in and over the Pacific and Indian Oceans would be needed. A very clear picture of what is happening in and around the Indian sub-continent would be required.

From a practical point of view, there are absolute limits (spatial scale) beyond which appropriability of data from private observation networks face diminishing returns and a point where profitability eventually must break down. Data originating from the local scale, where from an economic stand point can be considered a “rival good”, start loosing its “rival” character, as they are collected at larger scales, becoming essentially “non-rival goods” at the global scale. The logic of the systems to be studied and analyzed, call for a very open scheme of collecting and integrating the pieces of information into larger and larger pictures (technically “fields”) of known precision and accuracy. This integration is being done in real or almost real-time. The latest piece of information, let us say collected in the last six hours, coming from an isolated place has a larger value that start to diminish as times passes.

Since the potential users of these products come from a wide range of public and private activities, most of them on land, it is necessary to efficiently segment the markets between public and private agents, with the goal of maximizing total economic benefits to society. Although society might wish to directly recover the cost of collecting the data by selling the raw data itself, I am convinced that is the wrong approach. The benefits to society are increased by the free and open exchange of primary data and by allowing the development of a variety of specialist organizations that can tailor their products to the specific needs of their clients. These extra layers of specialists provide extra jobs, generate revenues and taxes and secure efficient servicing of final users. The specialists might as well develop additional observing networks to improve their products, and serve better their clients.

The building of Earth observations until now has been mainly the result from ¨science pushing”. For the completion of this effort, today we need to enlarge the “societal pull”. IOC and others have started to work directly with a variety of private users that are interested in trying the new information in their own daily management operations. Companies and agencies involved in Energy, Power, Tourism, Building Regulations, Insurance and the Financial sector at large, have all expressed interest in working with us to better specify their needs of information. It is a simple truism that in order to build an observing system useful for a particular industrial application, one needs to know the requirements from that application. Industries are used to deal with risk assessment and

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liabilities. It is not that we are asking them to finance directly the investment, but we want them to demonstrate the utility of this information to themselves and in doing so help us to reveal the real economic benefits to society involved in earth observations.

Quoting from an internal report of the IOC to the 31st General Conference of UNESCO: “The long-term challenge […] is to define a global framework in which the development of GOOS as a single, permanent, global, public-oriented service, can be achieved, with the active contribution of different segments of the society, including the private sector. This requires demonstration of the economic benefits of a common shared strategy between the public and private sector, the identification of the public and private services that can be derived and/or shared through a common observing platform and the appropriate segmentation of public and private products and users. Achieving this new vision will require the development, negotiation and adoption of international norms and agreements, especially in the area of data and information exchange and sharing”.

A4. GEO-1 Meeting Summary (draft 26 September 2003)

The First session of the Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) was held in the Ronald Reagan Building, Washington, DC on August 1 – 2, 2003. The meeting was called to order by Dr. Kathie Olsen, Associate Director for Science of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Dr. Olsen noted the successful outcome of the Earth Observation Summit in adopting the Declaration and, according to the terms of the Declaration, she invited the Members (See Annex 1 for lists of Members and Participants) to consider candidates for co-chairs for GEO. The list of nominees included Vice Admiral (VADM) Conrad Lautenbacher (Retired), United States; Mr. Achilleas Mitsos, European Commission; and Mr. Akio Yuki, Japan. The motion to elect the three nominees was adopted unanimously and without objection. The terms also included the prospect of a fourth co-chair from a developing country. The nomination and selection would occur at the first suitable opportunity. VADM Lautenbacher, Undersecretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA, US), assumed the co-chair and invited Mr. Mitsos, Director General of the Directorate General for Research of the European Commission (EC), and Mr. Yuki, Deputy Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT, JAPAN), to join him in chairing the session. Dr. Mitsos expressed his strong support for the work of the GEO and his commitment to the duties of co-chairmanship. After receiving approval of the agenda (See Annex 2), the Chair called for the Members to consider the Terms of Reference for GEO. The discussion of the terms raised a number of issues, for example: welcoming new members from among those countries not present; the status of ‘observers’ and the need to build on existing efforts; function and operation of the Secretariat; working by consensus; and funding issues. The Chair acknowledged the constructive discussion and proposed to incorporate Member suggestions in a revised version for discussion later in the meeting. Dr. Ghassem Asrar, Associate Administrator for Earth Science, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA,US), was invited to present a Discussion Paper on the Framework. The paper outlined the fundamental elements of the 10-year plan including the purpose, the benefits, the architecture, the challenges, and the next steps. The paper stimulated considerable discussion. Members identified additional potential benefits, noted further challenges, and provided relevant information on current programs and progress. They were especially interested to ensure that existing systems, both in situ and space-based, are effectively incorporated into the future program of Earth observations and that the resulting system or system of systems fully addresses user needs. Members noted that the concept should include the entire scope from requirements to delivery of services, but the initial plans may focus principally on the observational elements. Several members emphasized that building on the work of the Integrated Global

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Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P), would be crucial to the development of the 10-year plan. Mr. Jack Metthey, Director for Space and Transport (EC), and Dr. Jose Achache, Director of Earth Observation Programme, European Space Agency, were invited to make presentations during the luncheon. They discussed the European initiative, Global Monitoring for the Environment and Security (GMES), which is jointly funded through the EC and ESA. The program is intended to deliver policy-relevant services to end users, including urban mapping services, forest and land use change mapping, water pollution risk management, forest fire and flood management, crop monitoring, coastal zone management, and ice monitoring. The Chair reconvened the meeting and invited consideration of the revised Terms of Reference. After a few comments, Members approved the Terms of Reference (See Annex 3). Mr. Gregory Withee, Assistant Administrator for Satellite and Information Services, NOAA (US), was invited to present the Draft Framework Outline and lead the discussion. Mr. Withee first noted that the GEO would have to meet an ambitious schedule to meet the stated goals of the Earth Summit and presented a calendar for the next year. (See Annex 4.) Members agreed with the general dates on the schedule and offered some details about the Tokyo ministerial conference in the second quarter of 2004 and the next meeting of GEO proposed for the last quarter of 2003. Japan offered to host a GEO meeting immediately before and in conjunction with the Tokyo ministerial conference. Japan also pointed out that the result of the Tokyo ministerial conference should be reported to the G8 Summit in 2004, which was also agreed by Members. Italy offered to host the second GEO meeting on 28-29 November 2003, immediately following the Fourth Forum on GMES, also being held there.. Mr. Withee led the discussion on the Draft Framework Outline, which provided initial thoughts on the scope, direction, approach, and expectations of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems. The discussion was intended to allow the GEO to take first steps in developing a Framework for the Tokyo ministerial conference in the second quarter of 2004 and the Implementation Plan for the ministerial conference in an EU Member state in the fourth quarter of 2004. Members discussed how the work of the various subgroups would relate to the preparation of the Framework Document. Most agreed that the Declaration provided the primary guidance for the Framework. However, Members raised several specific issues about costs and benefits and how the future systems would meet the requirements, both for near-term and long-term purposes. (See Annex 5 for the agreed outline.) Dr. Tillmann Mohr, Director General of EUMETSAT, stressed the importance of GEO taking full advantage of what has already been achieved, in particular the Theme Reports prepared by high-level international groups under the guidance of the IGOS Partnership. The Chair invited Dr. Charles Groat, Director, United States Geological Survey and head of the U.S. Delegation, to outline a potential structure for GEO, which included a specific set of subgroups and a secretariat (See Annex 6). After some discussion of the general

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and specific needs to develop a Framework and Implementation Plan, GEO Members agreed that subgroups should be formed for: 1) System Architecture; 2) User Requirements/ Outreach; 3) Data Utilization; 4) Capacity Building; and 5) International Cooperation. Dr. Groat invited Members and participants to volunteer to serve on or to lead the various groups. Preliminary membership lists were prepared and circulated (See Annex 7). Dr. Groat continued to lead the discussion concerning the Secretariat, which was proposed to support GEO and the work of the subgroups. The Members discussed and agreed to a purpose and set of functions to be performed by the Secretariat. The Secretariat is intended to support the work of the GEO under the direction of the Co-Chairs. (See Annex 8 for its functions). Several Members and participants offered to provide assistance (See Annex 9). The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. VADM Lautenbacher, GEO Co-Chair, reconvened the GEO meeting on August 2 and reviewed the outcome of the preceding day. He invited participants to review the list of volunteers for the subgroups and make any additions/corrections. He also reviewed the activities for the Secretariat. He noted that a full set of all documents would be made available and placed on a website by the Secretariat by September 5. (See Annex 10 for a full set of actions.) The Chair invited presentations on developing country issues. On behalf of Dr. John Briceno, Deputy Prime Minister of Belize, Jorge Cabrerra made a presentation on the Central American Commission for the Environment and Development (SICA/CCAD), noting that considerable progress has been made in addressing issues in Meso America. Phase I has been successfully completed and Phase II is now beginning. It is intended to broaden the scope to include Caribbean countries and share methodologies more widely. Mr. Cabrerra demonstrated the considerable capacity that the Central American governments have developed to use Earth observations through an interactive 3D visualization of data from NASA research satellites that are being benchmarked for use to support management and policy decisions. Mr. Daniel Reifsnyder, U.S. Delegation member and Director of the Office of Global Change at the Department of State, was invited to report on a caucus of developing countries that had assembled to discuss the selection of the fourth GEO co-chair. He reported that South Africa offered to nominate a candidate for the position and that all participating countries in the caucus agreed to support the candidate. Members unanimously agreed to the proposal that South Africa be a co-chair. The South African delegate expressed his gratitude to the Members and agreed to provide the name of a specific individual who would assume the co-chair position. The Chair invited the potential leaders of the various subgroups to caucus during the intermission. Upon resumption of the meeting, several Members provided refinements to the structure and scope of the various subgroups. It was suggested that a website be used to facilitate communication and cooperation among the subgroups.

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The Chair invited the delegates from Gabon to make a presentation on activities in Africa. Dr. Chris Mombo Nzatsi, Director General of the Environment, informed the participants about progress made to gather, distribute, and archive information related to meteorology, and other environmental for the benefit of several West African countries. It is intended that the effort, undertaken in conjunction with the Association pour le Development de l'Information Environnementale (ADIE), will expand to other African regions. Following a final round of comments about the future work of the GEO and its subcommittees and the Secretariat, the Chair invited Mr. Yuki to comment. He complimented GEO on the very positive discussions and acknowledged that the efforts would be very helpful in preparing for the second Ministerial meeting in Tokyo. He expressed appreciation to VADM Lautenbacher for chairing the session and to the U.S. Government for the organization and hosting of the meeting. The Chair concluded the session by thanking all participants for the overwhelmingly positive response. He acknowledged that the expertise and enthusiasm of the group would enable the ambitious schedule to be met. Noting that he was looking forward to the second GEO meeting in Italy, he adjourned the inaugural GEO meeting.

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Post GEO-1 ACTIONS

1. Identify subgroup representatives to [email protected] by August 21,

2003.

2. Identify Secretariat representatives to [email protected] by August 21, 2003.

3. Secretariat to issue draft terms of reference for each subgroup to GEO members and participants by September 5, 2003.

4. Secretariat begins planning for GEO-2 by September 5, 2003.

5. Members provide response on draft terms of reference by September 19, 2003.

6. Secretariat provides annotated draft Framework outline, including Subgroup assignments, to GEO members and participants by September 19, 2003.

7. Subgroups begin work no later than October 1, 2003.

8. Secretariat completes draft introduction and purpose sections of Framework by October 31, 2003.

9. Draft chapters due to Secretariat from Subgroups by October 31, 2003.

10. Secretariat to compile and distribute to members and participants the chapters for first draft framework document by November 14, 2003.

11. GEO-2 meeting 28-29 November 2003, Italy.

12. Secretariat prepares website and draft briefing package on GEO by October 14, 2003.

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Final 2 August 2003

Earth Observation Summit Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO)

Terms of Reference

Recalling the Earth Observation Summit Declaration of 31 July 2003, the participating governmental entities (collectively referred to as the “Members”) set forth the following, legally non-binding Terms of Reference for the ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO).

1. Purpose and Functions of the GEO

The GEO will seek in its work to: 1.1 improve coordination of strategies and systems for observations of the

Earth and identify measures to minimize data gaps, with a view to moving toward a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems;

1.2 coordinate an effort to involve and assist developing countries in

improving and sustaining their contributions to observing systems, as well as their access to and effective utilization of observations, data and products, and the related technologies by addressing capacity-building needs related to Earth observations;

1.3 exchange observations recorded from in situ, aircraft, and satellite

networks, dedicated to the purposes of this Declaration, in a full and open manner with minimum time delay and minimum cost, recognizing relevant international instruments and national policies and legislation;

1.4 prepare a 10-year Implementation Plan, taking into account existing

activities and building on existing systems and initiatives, with the Framework being available by the Tokyo ministerial conference on Earth observations to be held during the second quarter of 2004, and the Plan being available by the ministerial conference to be hosted by the European Union during the fourth quarter of 2004;

1.5 define a process to periodically evaluate and revise the 10-year

Implementation Plan; and

1.6 conduct such other activities, consistent with the Declaration, as the Members may deem necessary.

B1.

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2.0 Organization of the GEO

2.1 The GEO welcomes and is open to all interested governments and the

European Commission. Each Member will name one representative and one alternate. Each Member will determine the terms of its participation in the activities of the GEO. The list of current Members is contained in Annex I to these Terms of Reference, and will be updated at each meeting.

2.2 The GEO may also invite the participation of organizations,

international bodies, and individual experts. The list of current participants is contained in Annex II to these Terms of Reference, and will be updated at each meeting.

2.3 The GEO will meet at such times and places as determined by its

Members.

2.4 At its inaugural meeting, the GEO will elect four co-chairs from among its Members, at least one of which will be from a developing country Member, to serve until 31 December 2004.

2.5 The GEO will work by consensus of its Members.

2.6 The GEO may establish subgroups, as appropriate.

2.7 Administrative Secretariat support to the GEO will be provided by the

United States, working with staff designated and supported by other Members and participants, as deemed necessary and appropriate by the co-chairs.

3.0 Funding

Unless otherwise agreed, any costs arising from activities under these Terms of Reference will be borne by the Member or participant that incurs them, and will be subject to the availability of funds, personnel, and other resources.

4.0 Duration

4.1 All activities under these Terms of Reference will commence upon adoption and will continue until 31 December 2004, unless extended or terminated.

4.2 The terms of this document may be modified at any time by written

agreement of the Members.

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Argentina Australia Belize Brazil Canada China Denmark Egypt European Commission France Gabon Germany India Ireland Israel Italy Japan Kazakhstan Mexico Morocco Netherlands New Zealand Norway Republic of Congo Republic of Korea Russian Federation South Africa Spain Sweden Switzerland Thailand Ukraine United Kingdom United States

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Central American Commission for the Environment and Development (SICA/CCAD) Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) European Space Agency (ESA) European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS) Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) International Agency for the Development of Environmental Information (ADIE) International Council for Science (ICSU) International Geosphere-Biosphere Program (IGBP) International Group of Funding Agencies for Global Change Research (IGFA) Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) World Bank (IBRD) World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

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ICTOR-RELEASE 1 1 October 2003

Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Subgroup on International Cooperation

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Recalling the GEO Terms of Reference adopted on 1 August 2003 at GEO - 1, the GEO establishes the Subgroup on International Cooperation and sets forth the following legally non-binding Terms of Reference: 1. Purpose

The Subgroup on International Cooperation will develop for the 10-year implementation plan a long-term, international organizational strategy and coordination mechanism for a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems, building on existing mechanisms and structures.

2. Objectives

2.1. Establish international strategies, models, and organizational structures that could be used for effective long-term coordination of a comprehensive, coordinated Earth observation system or systems.

2.2. Promote improved coordination of a sustained, comprehensive, Earth observation system or systems.

3. Approach and Functions

3.1. Identify the international coordination needs of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.

3.2. Review existing international coordination mechanisms, models, and strategies, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and identify barriers to effective coordination.

3.3. Identify and develop a set of alternative proposed strategies, models, and

organizational structures that could be considered for long-term coordination of Earth observation. Consider existing as well as potential strategies, models, and structures, including those from other areas of international coordination.

3.4. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed strategies, including such

factors as the: a. Need to involve the broad range of Earth observation communities (e.g.,

satellite, in situ, research, operational, atmosphere, ocean, land, climate, disaster, agriculture, aviation safety, environment, sustainable development);

b. Need for flexibility and innovation; c. Time required to institute an optimal approach; d. Costs associated with implementing the coordination mechanism (start-up

and on-going).

B2.a

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3.5. Recommend for the 10-year implementation plan a long-term, international

organizational strategy and coordination mechanism for a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.

4. Subgroup Organization and Reporting

4.1. The Subgroup welcomes and is open to all interested GEO Members and participant organizations. The GEO Secretariat will maintain the list of current Subgroup Members and participants.

4.2. Representatives of Members and participant organizations may chair or co-chair

this Subgroup. The Subgroup chairs or co-chairs will be nominated to, and approved by, the GEO; additional co-chairs may be designated by consensus of Subgroup Members.

4.3. Additional technical experts may participate in Subgroup deliberations at the

invitation of a GEO Member or participant organization. 4.4. The Subgroup will meet at such times and places as determined by its Members. 4.5. The Subgroup will work by consensus of its Members. 4.6. The co-chairs of this Subgroup will report progress to the GEO Secretariat at

agreed intervals, and deliver progress reports at each GEO meeting.

4.7. The co-chairs of this subgroup may set up Task teams to address particular issues under its mandate.

4.8. The co-chairs of this Subgroup are encouraged to share documents, collaborate,

and coordinate with other Subgroups. 5. Funding


6. Duration

6.1. All activities under these Terms of Reference will commence upon adoption and will continue for the duration and life of the ad hoc Group on Earth Observations, unless otherwise terminated.

6.2. The terms of this document may be modified at any time by written agreement

of the GEO Members.

22


International Cooperation Subgroup Members and Participants

As of 1 October 2003

Australia* Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)* United States* Argentina Belgium Brazil Canada Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) European Commission European Space Agency (ESA) European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) Greece International Council for Science (ICSU) Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Israel Italy Japan Portugal Russian Federation South Africa Spain Switzerland United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Meteorological Organization (WMO) *indicates Co-Chair

23

ARTOR-RELEASE 1 1 October 2003

Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Subgroup on Architecture

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Recalling the GEO Terms of Reference adopted on 1 August 2003 at GEO-1, the GEO establishes a Subgroup on Architecture and sets forth the following legally non-binding Terms of Reference: 1. Purpose

The Subgroup on Architecture will seek to develop for the 10-year implementation plan the architecture for a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems, including in situ, airborne, and space-borne observations, taking into account existing activities, and building on existing systems and initiatives.

2. Objectives

Define the purpose, structure, scope, boundaries, and development strategy for the architecture of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.


3.1. Develop and provide a concrete, structured, end-to-end approach to addressing the architecture: a. Identify architecture desired outcomes (e.g. flexibility, adaptability,

modularity); b. Identify architecture functional requirements that are free of assumed

implementation approaches; c. Assess current international Earth observation system capabilities;

evaluate their strengths and shortfalls (gap analysis).

3.2. Consider concepts for the technical operation of the system or systems, including such features as data capture/collection, processing, dissemination, storage/archiving, exchange, products/services, and telecommunications, working with other GEO Subgroups and taking into account such matters as: a. Cost and technical feasibility of the conceptual alternatives; b. Capability of each concept to meet required functions.

3.3. Consider a set of alternative architecture solutions, taking into account such matters as: a. Strengths and weaknesses of alternatives considered; b. Desired outcomes and required functions.

B2.b

24


3.4. Recommend for the 10-year implementation plan an architecture for a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.



4.2. Representatives of Members and participant organizations may chair or co-

chair this Subgroup. Subgroup chairs or co-chairs will be nominated to, and approved by, the GEO; additional co-chairs may be designated by consensus of Subgroup Members.


invitation of a GEO Member or participant organization. 4.4. The Subgroup will meet at such times and places as determined by its

Members. 4.5. The Subgroup will work by consensus of its Members. 4.6. The co-chairs of this Subgroup will report progress to the GEO Secretariat at

appropriate intervals, and deliver progress reports at each GEO meeting.

4.7. The Subgroup may set up Task teams to address particular issues under its mandate.

4.8. The co-chairs of this Subgroup are encouraged to share documents and

coordinate with other Subgroups. 5. Funding


6. Duration



of the GEO Members.

25


Architecture Subgroup Members and Participants As of 1 October 2003

Brazil* European Space Agency (ESA)* France* Japan* United States* World Meteorological Organization (WMO)* Argentina Australia Belgium Canada Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) China Denmark European Commission European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) France Germany Greece Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Israel Italy Network of European Meteorological Services (EUMETNET) Netherlands Norway Russian Federation South Africa Spain Sweden Switzerland United Kingdom *indicates Co-Chair

26

CBTOR-RELEASE 1 1 October 2003

Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Subgroup on Capacity Building

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Recalling the GEO Terms of Reference adopted on 1 August 2003 at GEO-1, the GEO establishes a Subgroup on Capacity Building and sets forth the following, legally non-binding Terms of Reference: 1. Purpose

The Subgroup on Capacity Building will develop for the 10-year implementation plan a long-term capacity building strategy for a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems, including in situ, airborne, and space-borne observations, taking into account existing activities and building on existing systems and initiatives.

2. Objectives

Establish a framework within the 10-year implementation plan to facilitate a coordinated effort to involve and assist countries, with emphasis on developing countries, in improving and sustaining their contributions to observing systems, as well as their access to and effective utilization of observations, data and products, and related technologies.


3.1. Identify and examine existing and proposed Earth observation capacity building activities by national governments, participating organizations, and other relevant institutions.

3.2. Identify priority areas in which Earth observation capacity building would have significant impact and benefit.

3.3. Identify mechanisms for leveraging, developing and coordinating Earth observation capacity building initiatives.

3.4. Recommend strategies for resource mobilization.

3.5. Recommend a long-term capacity building strategy for the 10-year implementation plan.

B2.c

27





chair this Subgroup. Subgroup chairs or co-chairs will be nominated to and approved by the GEO; additional co-chairs may be designated by consensus of Subgroup Members.






4.8. The co-chairs of this Subgroup are encouraged to share documents,

collaborate, and coordinate with other Subgroups. 5. Funding


6. Duration



of the GEO Members.

28


Capacity Building Subgroup Members and Participants


Argentina* Belize/CCAD* Brazil* Israel* Republic of the Congo* United States* Australia Belgium Canada Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) European Commission (EC) Egypt Greece Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) India Italy Israel Japan New Zealand Norway South Africa Spain Thailand United Kingdom United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Meteorological Organization (WMO) *indicates Co-Chair

29

DUTOR-RELEASE 1 1 October 2003

Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Subgroup on Data Utilization

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Recalling the GEO Terms of Reference adopted on 1 August 2003 at GEO-1, the GEO establishes a Subgroup on Data Utilization and sets forth the following legally non-binding Terms of Reference: 1. Purpose

The Subgroup on Data Utilization will seek to develop a long-term data utilization strategy for the 10-year implementation plan for a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems, including in situ, airborne, and space-borne observations, taking into account existing activities, and building on existing systems and initiatives.

2. Objectives

2.1. Review and document relevant international Earth observation data policies.

2.2. Identify possible barriers to data accessibility and utility and develop strategies to minimize them.

2.3. Encourage the development and use of common data standards and formats and consistent calibration methodologies to facilitate broader data access and use, and to enhance data preservation, where appropriate.

2.4. Address data utilization challenges and requirements, such as complexities of various data and metadata sources, quality control, archives, and data management systems.

2.5. Develop a data utilization model for the 10-year implementation plan.


3.1. Identify and evaluate existing data utilization approaches for suitability and viability for use under the 10-year plan, including such matters as: a. Capture of metadata; b. Instrument and data calibration; c. Format and exchange standards for data and metadata; d. Catalogues and directories, including interoperability; e. Data and metadata availability, including cost and timeliness; f. Data policies and complexities of diverse data sources.

3.2. Evaluate alternatives with respect to meeting desired outcomes and required functions, including resource implications.

B2.d

30


3.3. Identify and prioritize actions required to implement the long-term strategy.

3.4. Recommend a long-term data utilization strategy for the 10-year implementation plan.




chair this Subgroup. The Subgroup chairs or co-chairs will be nominated to and approved by the GEO; additional co-chairs may be designated by consensus of Subgroup Members.





4.7. The Sub-group may set up Task teams to address particular issues under its mandate.




6. Duration



of the GEO Members.

31


Data Utilization Subgroup Members and Participants


Brazil* Canada * European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF)* United States * Argentina Australia Belgium Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) China European Commission European Space Agency (ESA) Egypt France Germany Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) Greece Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Israel Italy Japan Norway Netherlands Russian Federation South Africa Spain Sweden Thailand United Kingdom World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) World Meteorological Organization (WMO) indicates Co-Chair

32

URTOR RELEASE 1 1 October 2003

Ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Subgroup on User Requirements and Outreach

TERMS OF REFERENCE

Recalling the GEO Terms of Reference adopted on 1 August 2003 at GEO-1, the GEO establishes the Subgroup on User Requirements and Outreach and sets forth the following legally non-binding Terms of Reference: 1. Purpose

The Subgroup on User Requirements and Outreach will seek to develop for the 10-year implementation plan an effective mechanism to identify high priority requirements for current and future Earth observations, including in situ, airborne, and space-borne observations, taking into account existing activities and building on existing systems and initiatives. This Subgroup will establish the means to engage users in a continuing dialogue on their current and evolving requirements.

2. Objectives

2.1. Establish, develop and maintain effective dialogue with users who require or have expressed an interest in Earth observations.

2.2. Implement an agreed framework for addressing the priority requirements of end-users, taking into account existing requirements-gathering processes.

2.3. Promote widespread awareness of the benefits of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.


3.1. Identify existing inventories of major user requirements and their present status, including such mechanisms as the CEOS/WMO database, the IGOS-P themes, the GCOS 2nd Adequacy Report and the latest update of WCRP needs.

3.2. Recommend a mechanism to identify, document, and prioritize requirements of major stakeholders for current and future Earth observations; review and update these requirements in consultation with stakeholders.

3.3. Identify commonalities and requirements from various end users.

3.4. Identify opportunities for GEO leadership to interact with major stakeholders.

3.5. Recommend outreach mechanisms to increase user awareness of the benefits of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation system or systems.

B2.e

33



4.1. The Subgroup welcomes and is open to all interested GEO Members and participant organizations. The GEO Secretariat maintains the list of current Subgroup Members and participants.


chair this Subgroup. The Subgroup chairs or co-chairs will be nominated to and approved by the GEO; additional co-chairs may be designated by consensus of Subgroup Members.









6. Duration



of the GEO Members.

34


User Requirements and Outreach Subgroup Members and Participants As of 1 October 2003

Canada* Italy* United Kingdom* Argentina Australia Belgium Brazil Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) Cyprus European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) European Commission Egypt European Space Agency (ESA) Germany Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) International Geosphere-Biosphere Program (IGBP) International Group of Funding Agencies for Global Change Research (IGFA) Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission/Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) India Japan Netherlands Norway Russian Federation South Africa Spain Sweden United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) United States World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) World Meteorological Organization (WMO) * indicates Co-Chair

35

Secretariat

– Purpose Support the work of GEO under the direction of the Co-Chairs

– Notional functions

Organizing and supporting GEO meetings

Establishing and maintaining website, e-mail, and associated communication mechanisms

Tracking and coordinating work among GEO and its subgroups

Provide for technical expertise for the subgroups

Draft for the subgroups

Introduction and Purpose

Annotated Framework Document Outline

GEO Secretariat Membership *indicates co-chair

EC* Japan* South Africa* USA* Canada CEOS ESA EUMETSAT France IGOS IOC Italy WMO

B3.

36

Group onEarth

bservations

Group onEarth

bservations GEO Structure

International CooperationGEO Subgroup

(Co-Chairs)

GEO(Co-Chairs)

GEO Secretariat

ArchitectureGEO Subgroup

(Co-Chairs)

Capacity BuildingGEO Subgroup

(Co-Chairs)

Data UtilizationGEO Subgroup

(Co-Chairs)

User Requirements& Outreach

GEO Subgroup(Co-Chairs)

B4.

37

C1. GEO Annotated Draft Framework Outline 1 October 2003

Temporary Foreword The text in Roman type covers topics that need to be included in the version of the draft Framework presented to GEO-2. The precise text to be used will be refined and expanded through contributions from the five Subgroups. The text in italics consists of explanation, comments and advice directed at the GEO Secretariat and/or the Subgroup Co-Chairs. As such, the italicised text will not, of course, figure in the final draft of the Framework that goes to GEO-2. Please also note that the guidance contained in this document is intended to build upon and amplify that contained in the Terms of Reference provided to the GEO Subgroups.

Annotated draft FRAMEWORK OUTLINE I. Introduction (to be completed by the Secretariat) The GEO Secretariat will compile the Introduction with substantial inputs from the Subgroup Co-Chairs and members of the five GEO Subgroups. After the incorporation of comments from GEO members and participants, a draft Framework will be distributed in good time for consideration at GEO-2 scheduled to be held in Baveno, Italy on 28/29 November, 2003. The Outline is intended to provide guidance to the Subgroups in their work (including interaction between Subgroups) and in the drafting of their contributions to the draft Framework. The draft Framework will form the basis for discussions at GEO-2 and to facilitate the production of the substantive Framework document to be submitted to the GEO meeting held in Tokyo in the second quarter of 2004. The intention is that the Framework document as it emerges from the GEO meeting in Tokyo will be transformed into the 10-year Implementation Plan, scheduled to be considered by the GEO (presumably just before the ministerial meeting to be arranged in Europe) in the 4th quarter of 2004. In preparing this document full account has been taken of the Declaration of the Earth Observation Summit and of the relevant discussions at GEO-1.

39

GEO Annotated Draft Framework Outline DFO – RELEASE 1 1 October 2003 II. Purpose (to be completed by the Secretariat) The purpose of the Framework is to describe the major elements and the general approach to achieving a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustainable Earth observation system or systems which can realistically be put into place within the next 10 years, making the maximum practicable use of, and where possible strengthening, existing contributory elements. The document also has to indicate clearly what decisions and actions are required of subsequent GEO meetings in order to allow a 10 year Implementation Plan to be presented in the 4th quarter of 2004, for adoption at the European Summit. III. Benefits of the GEO Initiative It is not necessary in the Framework to go into detail on the potential benefits from the development of a comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained Earth observation systems or systems. This GEO Initiative (suggested as a replacement for the term “IEOS” ); GEO members and participants are presumably already convinced that the effort is justified. Outreach is needed, not “inreach”. There has been wide recognition of the considerable benefits that can be produced by international, comprehensive and sustained Earth observations and the transformation of these observations into products and services. The benefits will be not only in socio-economic terms, but also in relation to improving the understanding of the Earth system, providing support to decision-making processes, and, perhaps most significant of all, in supporting sustainable development. It is important to note that some benefits would accrue even in the short-term, that is, as soon as there is a wider and regular exchange of Earth observation observations from in situ, aircraft and satellite networks, dedicated to the purposes enunciated in the Declaration, and available in a full and open manner with minimum time delay and minimum cost to the user. Provider and user agencies should be encouraged to work to identify products that could be derived from existing data and which would produce short-term benefits. Sections IV through IX will be completed by contributions from the 5 Subgroups. Inevitably in such a multi-disciplinary exercise, there will be some overlapping of interests among the Subgroups. Attention will be drawn in the following sections to specific areas where consultation between two or more Subgroups appears to be critical, but in addition Subgroup Co-Chairs are in general invited to establish informal contacts with the Subgroup Co-Chairs of other Subgroups with a view to agreeing a sensible division of work. This informal horizontal consultation will continue to be important in the drafting of the substantive Framework document once the draft has been approved by GEO-2.

40

GEO Annotated Draft Framework Outline DFO – RELEASE 1 1 October 2003

The development of the Framework document is not intended to be a significant amount of writing. It is envisioned to be a high-level, perhaps 15-20 page document. If time does not allow for the production of a full text, Subgroup Co-Chairs should feel free to use bullet headings, provided that their intent is clear. A more extended and detailed text will, of course, be required for the substantive Framework document to be submitted in the 2nd quarter of 2004. IV. User Requirements The GEO Initiative is intended to meet the needs and requirements of many science disciplines and useful applications, and to provide key information for decision-makers worldwide. It is clearly important, therefore, for the work in the next year to take full account of users’ needs. It will be essential for these needs to be expressed by the users in terms of information needs, rather than by trying to consider how the requirements can be satisfied by the providers of observations or by existing data processing and distribution systems. For the purpose of the draft Framework, the emphasis is placed on describing the existing inventories of user requirements and their present status. In particular, the CEOS/WMO database (including its latest update), the IGOS Partnership theme reports, the GCOS 2nd Adequacy Report, WCRP’s requirements. Long-term data requirements should be considered as well. (Those connected with these initiatives consider that collectively they may cover around 80-90% of major user requirements for Earth observation. However, other existing inventories should be considered as well. It would be valuable for the draft Framework to have a view on this from the User Requirements & Outreach Subgroup, and also to have a first list of the perceived gaps in the current overall inventory of user requirements. Input from the Users Requirements Subgroup will be critical for other Subgroups and it is therefore important for an early start that immediate use be made of existing data banks.) V. Outreach A prominent part of the substantive Framework document will deal with outreach, and the need to promote a much wider awareness of the benefits of a comprehensive, coordinated and sustained Earth observation system or systems. This will be particularly –but by no means exclusively – of interest and value to developing countries. The maximum use should be made of existing outreach mechanisms, such as those conducted by members of the IGOS-P community, and a complementary programme will need to be developed to actively demonstrate the usefulness of Earth observations to key user communities at a decision-making level. (Although some reference to Outreach will need to be provided by the User Requirements and Outreach Subgroup for inclusion in the draft Framework, it is suggested that the detail should be reserved for the post-GEO-2 phase when the Framework will be developed. The Capacity Building and the International Cooperation Subgroups will

41

GEO Annotated Draft Framework Outline DFO – RELEASE 1 1 October 2003 have an interest in Outreach, and the User Requirements and Outreach Subgroup should take responsibility for arranging this coordination. Higher level outreach efforts should be pursued as well, perhaps in the International Cooperation Subgroup or by the GEO Co-Chairs.) VI. Architecture The Architecture Subgroup will need, as soon as practicable, to have a substantial input on user needs from the Requirements and Outreach Subgroup. In the short time available, it is unlikely that this input can arrive in time for the Architecture Subgroup to take it adequately into account in preparing its contribution to the draft Framework. In the first instance the Architecture Subgroup will need to determine at what level of detail the architecture should be specified. Is the WMO, WWW-GOS the appropriate level (including all the information on data formats and collection techniques) or is a more detailed treatment needed? It is therefore suggested that, for this initial purpose, the Architecture Group might concentrate on taking into account the existing Earth observation systems and the ongoing developments - both in situ and space-based - to improve their efficiency, as well as to provide a first top level appreciation of the architectural form into which the GEO Initiative may conveniently develop. Any recommended Architecture will need to allow access to existing observations as well as those that become available in the longer term. Current international Earth observing systems include

- WMO’s World Weather Watch and its Global Observing System; - Global Climate Observing System (GCOS); - Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS); and - Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS).

It should be noted that the responsible agencies for these systems, which include in situ, aircraft and space observations, are all Partners of IGOS-P. Valuable additional information is provided by the CEOS Handbook and by the IGOS Partnership Theme Reports. Of course there are other observing efforts that are perhaps only partially within the four mentioned above, and others perhaps are not included at all. Some examples could include BRSM (Baseline Surface Radiation Network), FLUXNET (Global network to measure exchange of CO2, water vapour and energy between terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere), International Arctic Buoy Program, international seismic networks, and volcano observatories – to name but a few. None of the systems listed above is sufficiently comprehensive nor adequately supported (politically, financially and technically) to accomplish the full purpose of the GEO Initiative. Some work on unrealistically tight budgets, particularly in relation to in situ

42


observations where dedicated staffing resources are very scarce. They all nevertheless constitute valuable building blocks, and can provide an insight into the difficulties that have to be overcome in giving effect to the aims of the Earth Observation Summit Declaration (Washington). The important question of resource requirements cannot be avoided. This may need to be addressed by a joint task force from the Architecture and International Cooperation Subgroups, and cannot be provided in time for the draft Framework. VII. Data Utilization This crucial aspect is complicated by the fact that several information components are in fact outside the scope of the GEO Initiative. The generation of useful products, for instance, will require an integrated approach for sharing multi-scale data sets and model output. Increasing the utilization of existing data is essential, and mechanisms will also be needed to ensure proper interfaces between Earth observation information models and the decision support tools used by decision makers. The product of the GEO Initiative will be incomplete if these peripheral areas are not considered in consultation with the relevant user bodies. It will be important to define common language and protocols, as has been done within the WMO, in order to enable systems to speak to systems. In working to develop a long-term data utilization strategy, it is suggested that the contribution of the Data Utilization Subgroup to the draft Framework must already demonstrate the complexity of this area, and provide assurance that the necessary liaison with other Subgroups (International Cooperation and User Requirements in particular) is being tackled, if necessary by the formation of joint task forces, and that the most important external interlocutors have been identified, so that these aspects can be addressed immediately after GEO-2. VIII. Capacity Building Because there are already many initiatives in building Earth observation capacity, priority will initially be given to identifying what already exists or is firmly planned by local and national governments, by regional organisations and, of course, international organisations. The initial aim of the Capacity Building Subgroup will be to identify priority areas in which Earth observation capacity building would have the greatest impact and benefit on local and national societies. Special attention is being given to the various activities that have been developed as a part of the follow up to WSSD. The efforts of WMO, UNOOSA (including the UNISPACE Action Teams), CEOS and IGOS-P in this domain are all worthy of attention.

43


IX. International Cooperation This Subgroup will need to identify its interfaces with other Subgroups, and liaison meetings between Subgroup Co-Chairs will be required, and perhaps the creation of inter-Subgroup task forces to deal with specific topics which overlap two or more Subgroups. For the purposes of the draft Framework, therefore, the International Cooperation Subgroup should place emphasis on identifying example organisational and institutional mechanisms for potential future consideration for an ongoing GEO Initiative, and beginning to make a first assessment of gaps, shortcomings, and opportunities (or at least identifying criteria to be used for such an assessment). Major tasks include:

• Investigating how best to move from the initial 34 member nations and 22 participating agencies to effectively cover the whole world; whilst maintaining a viable executive coordination and oversight function;

• Identifying entities capable of expanding into a wider operational role; • Ensuring that no existing entity with a potential input is excluded or any relevant

effort missed; and • Assuring an acceptable balance of benefits to developed and developing

countries. X. The Way Ahead GEO-2 is expected to give guidance on the suitability of the draft Framework, so that the five Subgroups and the Secretariat can transform it into the Framework required for the Tokyo meetings. It appears at present that the same structure of Subgroups will be appropriate for this next stage of the work, but it will be necessary for the Framework also to go into some detail on how it is proposed to transition from the Framework to the 10-year Implementation Plan. (It is suggested that it would be premature in the draft Framework to speculate on how the Framework is to be transformed into the Implementation Plan. Work on this can indeed start in November, but it would be unrealistic to give an undertaking to have a meaningful plan in time for the November GEO-2.)

44

JDNOSAJJMAMFJDNOSA

C2. Ad Hoc Inter- governmental Group on Earth Observation (GEO)Draft Tasking

Earth Observation Summit-1 July 31United States

2003 2004 2005

Initial GEO Meeting—August 1-2

= International Users Fora

= GEO Secretariat Meetings

= GEO Meetings

= Significant Events

Complete Framework Document

Complete10-Year Implementation Plan

Earth Observation Summit-2Japan

Earth Observation Summit-3Europe

GEO-2 Italy November 28-29

45

intergovernmental oceanographic commission (of unesco) · observation data and immediate...

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