Call for Evidence on the European Observation Initiative
We recently submitted feedback to the European Commission on its call for evidence for a European Ocean Observation Initiative (OOI). Our submission highlights three recommendations:
We recently submitted feedback to the European Commission on its call for evidence for a European Ocean Observation Initiative (OOI). Our submission highlights three recommendations:
1. Consider mCDR-specific ocean observation and MRV
The OOI should ensure that emerging climate-relevant uses of the ocean, including mCDR, are explicitly considered within ocean observation governance.
2. Europe-specific data is needed to further advance the knowledge on mCDR
The OOI should support the creation of high-quality, European-specific datasets that help unlock innovation while ensuring that any future development of mCDR is grounded in precaution, scientific evidence, and ecosystem protection.
3. Strengthening research and innovation support
The OOI is intended to drive international scientific cooperation and deliver, inter alia, a blueprint mapping knowledge gaps by June 2026. It is critical that this blueprint, together with the forthcoming EU Ocean R&I Strategy, supports the development of a dedicated mCDR research and innovation agenda, leveraging the with clear milestones linked to monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) and certification needs under the CRCF.
Next, the Commission will assess feedback before deciding on the scope and direction of the Initiative. As this moves from problem definition to more concrete options, continued stakeholder engagement will be key.