Group on Earth Observations – GEO Global Forum 2025 & GEO-20 Plenary

The Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS) remains committed to produce and provide high-quality and open in situ data following the principles and engagements of GEO. ICOS measurements of concentrations and fluxes of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, on land and in the ocean are essential information for many communities in GEO, be they satellite experts for calibration and validation, modelers to constrain their models and improve predictions of climate trends, or developers to produce new tools based on EO data. GEO represents an ideal framework to support ICOS and foster collaboration with various EO organisations. ICOS multi-domain measurements are invaluable as the need for high-quality, in situ cal/val data grows in proportion to advances in satellite observations.

As a key element of the strategy of ICOS, the support to under-observed regions of the world also benefits from the links to members and participating organizations in GEO. ICOS activities in Africa are tightly connected to AfriGEO which represents a particularly relevant stage to engage with key partners in the region. GEO’s efforts to improve in situ observations and climate services in Africa (e.g. in the TEMBO pilot) are perfectly in line with the objectives of the KADI project. KADI’s aims to strengthen Africa’s ability to generate, access, and use high-quality climate data and services aligns with GEO’s vision for locally owned and globally integrated EO systems that advance inclusivity, empower users and support climate resilience.

Other potential contributions to GEO activities can be found in the experience ICOS has gained in urban settings, in climate risks… as well as in its strong position as a provider of surface ocean data. Together with other partners in GEO, synergies are sought to improve the amount, the quality and the sustainability of ocean observations.