EPB Highlights the Importance of Polar Observations in EC Call for Evidence on the Ocean Observation Initiative

The European Polar Board (EPB) has submitted its contribution to the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the forthcoming European Ocean Observation Initiative, highlighting the importance of explicitly integrating a dedicated polar dimension into the initiative. The polar regions,  including the Arctic Ocean, the Southern Ocean around Antarctica, and their connected ice sheets, glaciers, permafrost and coastal zones,  play a critical role in regulating the Earth system, influencing European climate, sea-level rise, and marine productivity.

In its contribution, the EPB emphasises that reliable access to high-latitude observations is essential for Europe’s strategic autonomy and climate resilience. Polar observations underpin key European services and tools, including climate projections, sea-level forecasts, and satellite validation. Strengthening access to these observations would support initiatives such as Copernicus services and the Digital Twin of the Ocean, while improving Europe’s capacity to anticipate and respond to climate-driven risks.

Europe already has world-class polar research infrastructures, from ice-capable vessels and research stations to long-term observatories and advanced modelling systems. The EPB notes that the main challenge is ensuring coordination and long-term continuity across these assets at the European level. Integrating a strong polar component into the Ocean Observation Initiative would therefore reinforce the initiative’s goals in research and innovation, international cooperation, and public engagement while strengthening Europe’s ability to understand and respond to global change.