Towards a global terrestrial observing system (GTOS)

Abstract

Global changes in climate, atmospheric chemistry and land use are affecting the biological composition, productivity and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. The need for improved and reliable information on the responses of natural and managed systems to global change is widely recognized. The data are required both to detect and monitor changes and to develop and test models for projection of future changes. Remote sensing can increasingly provide comprehensive information on changes in land cover and land use and on measurement of some surface features, such as temperature and chemical composition. This information needs to be complemented by more detailed ground-based measurements such as species composition and performance, and environmental processes. The Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS) will cooperate with organisations such as START to provide benefits in research, training, information and facilities within developing countries as well as providing an early warning system of responses to global change and providing data for global models. -from Publisher Show more