This week’s focus in the AMRIT project was on metadata for Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs), with two key events dedicated to this topic. AMRIT comprises several work packages (WP 13-15) centred on blended EOVs, and the project is currently working toward to defining metadata and best practices for optimal delivery of EOVs sourced from multiple platforms.
On Tuesday, 24 March 2026, AMRIT hosted a workshop on Metadata and Best Practices for Blended EOVs, led by Kristin Richter (NORCE), Magali Krieger and Martin Kramp (WMO), and Carlos Rodero and Jaume Piera (CSIC). It included presentations on the current progress of AMRIT’s work on blended EOVs as well as links to recent workshops hosted by EuroArgo and Copernicus on the use of Argo data by European operational users, and the current state and future direction of the GOOS passport.
The workshop discussions highlighted the critical role of metadata as the backbone of data integration: without harmonised and interoperable metadata, the combination of observations across platforms remains limited. Discussions also underlined the complexity of integrating heterogeneous observing systems, including differences in sensor characteristics, spatial and temporal resolution, and quality control procedures. This reinforced the need for best practices to evolve from single-platform approaches toward system-level methodologies capable of supporting multi-source data fusion.
A recurring point across the breakout sessions was the importance of properly addressing uncertainty and data quality. Participants noted that improving the transparency and consistency of quality control processes, as well as the propagation of uncertainty in blended products, is essential for building trust and usability across communities.
The integration of additional data sources, particularly remote sensing and citizen science, was identified as both a major opportunity and a challenge. While these sources can significantly improve spatial and temporal coverage, their effective inclusion requires adapted metadata frameworks and validation approaches to ensure interoperability and reliability.
Finally, participants stressed the importance of user-oriented data products. Blended EOVs must not only be technically robust, but also tailored to the needs of diverse user groups. This includes ensuring accessibility, clear communication of uncertainty, and alignment with operational and policy requirements, reinforcing the need for closer interaction between data producers and end users.
Food for thought and future collaboration during AMRIT’s coffee corner
Building on the workshop discussions, the AMRIT consortium welcomed guests to Thursday’s Coffee Corner—a bi-weekly informal gathering where our scientists exchange updates on ongoing topics. Beatrice Scotto and Antonio Novellino presented the ObsSea4Clim project.
ObsSea4Clim aims to enhance Europe’s contribution to ocean observations of Essential Ocean and Climate Variables (EOVs/ECVs), supporting climate assessments and sustainable development. The project focuses on developing new ocean indicators, improving EOVs/ECVs and advancing their use in Earth System Models, reducing uncertainties in climate projections, and building an interoperable data ecosystem supported by best practices across in-situ and satellite observations.
The session highlighted how improved integration of data from multiple platforms can strengthen the ocean data value chain. It also sparked valuable discussions on synergies between AMRIT and ObsSea4Clim, paving the way for stronger collaboration across marine research infrastructures.
Through the implementation of the EOOS Technical Support Centre, AMRIT aims to work towards more coherent, interoperable, and impactful ocean observing in Europe.
A big thank you to our speakers and all participants for the engaging discussions this week!
If you want to keep up to date with AMRIT or are interested in collaborating, get in touch via amrit@Marine.ie and subscribe to our newsletter: /www.amritproject.eu/
