Remedy 2: Longer-term rationalisation of observational network governance

Primary gap remedy type: 
Governance
Proposed remedy description: 

Take steps to assess and as necessary rationalise the number of networks involved in taking high-quality measurements by merging, where possible, leading to more unified governance and planning for these measurement programs, both regionally and globally. To undertake this robustly requires an analysis of the current observational capabilities and governance structure, which should take account of funding, geopolitical remit, and other relevant factors. This may include in-depth survey interviews and other means to fully understand the role, support-model, and uses of each network. Then a rationalisation plan would need to be produced, circulated, and gain broad buy-in amongst the affected networks and associated global oversight bodies. Mergers should only proceed on a no-regrets basis and should not be enforced, if funding support or other essential support would be weakened as a result of the decision. Merged entities must be scientifically more robust, complete, and sustainable as a result of any merger. 

Relevance: 

The remedy would make it easier for funding and research communities to interact with the high-quality measurement networks. 

Measurable outcome of success: 

Reduction in complexity of the ecosystem of observing networks through time while retaining and enhancing observational capabilities. 

Expected viability for the outcome of success: 
  • Medium
Scale of work: 
  • Programmatic multi-year, multi-institution activity
Time bound to remedy: 
  • More than 10 years
Indicative cost estimate (investment): 
  • Medium cost (< 5 million)
Indicative cost estimate (exploitation): 
  • No
Potential actors: 
  • EU H2020 funding
  • Copernicus funding
  • National funding agencies
  • National Meteorological Services
  • WMO
  • ESA, EUMETSAT or other space agency