In the European Marine Research Infrastructure (MRI) landscape, Research Infrastructures either exploit a single observation platform:
- Fixed platforms for EMSO ERIC;
- Profiling Argo floats for Euro-Argo ERIC;
- Research vessels for Eurofleets+ and EuroGO-SHIP;
- Long range autonomous vehicles for GROOM RI.
Or are thematic and rely on a multi-platform approach:
- EMBRC ERIC for marine biodiversity observations with genomics experimental approaches, in relation with LIFEWATCH ERIC;
- ICOS-OTC for CO2 oceanic emissions assessment;
- JERICO RI for "holistic assessment of coastal marine system change", in relation with DANUBIUS RI;
- MINKE for setting up an innovative metrology framework to support Essential Ocean Variables observation.
These MRIs are either legal entities such as ERICs* recognized as ESFRI Landmarks** , or projects supported in particular by funding from the Infrastructure pillar of the European Commission framework programs. Their members are national organisations, and some of them host or coordinate these established infrastructures or projects (see Partners).
These ERICs and European MRIs projects have stimulated the development or reorganization of national MRIs, leading to the creation of a variety of national networks involving national agencies, research centers and universities. These European MRIs and national networks are now the key players in the collection of in situ ocean data for research and operators of sustainable ocean observing systems in Europe and globally. They form an indispensable backbone for the marine dimension of the European Research Area, for the European and Global Ocean Observing Systems, while directly benefiting Copernicus services and beyond.
*The European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC) is a specific legal form that facilitates the establishment and operation of Research Infrastructures with European interest.
**Landmarks are RIs that were implemented, or reached an advanced Implementation Phase under the ESFRI Roadmap