Advances in Accuracy and Continuity of Climate Observations: international Coordination and Prioritization

The World Meteorological Organization and the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures convened a joint meeting in Paris on September 9-12, 2024 to identify advances and current challenges for accuracy of atmospheric chemistry and physics observations. The focus is on the need for improved metrology in understanding our planet's climate, including measurements and monitoring of the climate system using various techniques. This theme also involved propagating uncertainties from measurements to derived products, modeling, reanalyses and Earth system models. It focused on global and regional observations to understand climate trends.

This AMS presentation will summarize the results from this meeting, with a focus on the reasons for improved metrological needs. WMO/BIPM recommendations developed from the September 26-30, 2022 meeting which first addressed the needs for measurement accuracy and characterization for observations to support climate action. The September, 2024 meeting covered five topics: Continuity, Tiered Networks and Low Cost Sensors, Beginning to End Measurement Requirements, Aerosols and Trace Gases, and Spectroscopic Measurements. Results are supportive of current priorities in the US for intentional support of climate observations and continuity.