SAHFOS to host special session on ocean observing systems at science meeting this autumn
The Marine Alliance for Science and Technology for Scotland (MASTS) is holding its seventh Annual Science Meeting in October in Glasgow, with the theme "Sea Change – changing seas, changing times". This cross-disciplinary meeting brings together members of the marine science community, with the aim of promoting and communicating research excellence and forging new scientific collaborations. As part of an exciting programme of talks, SAHFOS will host a special session on the first day, entitled “Maximising capabilities of volunteer observing systems”. Chaired by SAHFOS Director Prof Willie Wilson, the session will feature presentations from invited speakers from a range of backgrounds and conclude with a panel discussion, discussing opportunities and challenges associated with developing volunteer observing systems in the marine environment.
Call for abstracts
Abstracts are now being invited for 15 minute presentations (12 minute talk with 3 minutes for questions) to contribute to this session. Presenters are requested to ensure that their talks do not solely focus on past and current research but speculate on future directions of research lead by the UK. Talks will need to be accessible to other disciplines, by avoiding jargon and keeping technical details simple. To apply for this session, please visit here (closing dates for entries 16:00 on Friday 7th July 2017).
SAHFOS special session theme
“Maximising capabilities of volunteer observing systems”
Abstract
Recommendations from the recent G7 Science and Technology Minister’s meeting held in Japan (May 2016) called for the development of a global initiative for an enhanced, sustained sea and ocean observing system, supporting both critical ongoing observations and the integration of sensor technologies and new observations. Specifically, the G7 Science Ministers highlighted the need to support routine implementation of ecosystem/biodiversity Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs) and foster increased collaboration with the shipping industry. Taking a holistic approach, this special session will explore the opportunities available to maximise monitoring capabilities of volunteer observing systems, with invited representatives from the political, shipping, scientific and industry communities. The session will provide an insight into the political drivers behind this call, the scientific opportunities available with technology and instrumentation, the requirement from end-users (industry) of appropriate, relevant data and the possible means by which all this can be enabled through the shipping industry.