A new report shows advances in ocean observing for climate resilience, operational services, ocean health, and sustainable economies — yet warns that without stronger, coordinated investment and more diversified partnerships, this vital observing system and the services it underpins remain subcritical and at risk.
Why Sustained Ocean Observations Are Essential for a Climate-Resilient Future
Ocean observations play a crucial role in accurate climate projections, weather and extreme event forecasts, timely early warnings, biodiversity conservation and sustainable ocean economy. The Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) Status Report 2025, released today, shows both progress and vulnerabilities in the global capacity to deliver the essential information required to address growing societal needs and protect our ocean in a changing planet.
GOOS, led by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, leads and coordinates the global system of sustained ocean observations. This new, interactive report offers an up-to-date overview of the global ocean observing system and its observing networks monitored by OceanOPS, the joint World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and IOC operational centre of GOOS. The report also shares stories that explain how ocean observations are guiding science and policy, as well as helping us respond to some of the major challenges facing our ocean today.
Strengthening Global Capacity for Ocean Monitoring, Climate Adaptation, and Ocean Health
The report highlights global efforts to strengthen the capacity to monitor the ocean, adapt to a changing climate, improve operational services, and safeguard ocean health — all of which underpin sustainable ocean economies and the safety and well-being of societies worldwide.
Key Highlights of the Report
- Progress and gaps in predicting the the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation — the ocean current system that impacts our climate;
- Using ocean data to improve El Niño forecasts and early warning systems in South America;
- How elephant seals are collecting first-of-its-kind data to support Southern Ocean management and conservation;
- Building South Africa’s ocean observing capacity through co-design with local community and other stakeholders;
- A new initiative to transform 10,000 commercial vessels into real-time meteorological and oceanographic observatories.
