Long-term vision for JERICO-RI
Creators: name: Durand, Dominique
Publisher: name: JERICO S3
Year: 2024

description: Deliverable D1.4 of the JERICO-S3 project intends to draw a picture of what could and should be the coastal observing system of the future (with a 20-year perspective), and its implication for the future European research infrastructure for coastal observation – JERICO, based on an analysis of the main drivers that will lead the evolution of coastal observation. The key drivers considered in this study are (1) the evolution of the policy framework to answer emerging new societal needs, (2) the state-of-the-art in coastal observation, supporting science, and (3) ongoing technological game changers related to the industry 4.0 revolution and the rise of bio-based technology. The aim is to propose a vision that can trigger further discussion within the science community, and between research, industry and policymakers, to support the elaboration of dedicated ambition action plans for its implementation. The concomitant societal needs for protection and exploitation of coastal resources are investigated, as the expectations from the main policy initiatives addressing them (i.e., UN Sustainable Development Goal #14, UN Ocean decade, European Green Deal, Mission Restoring water and ocean 2030, Sustainable blue economy partnership). Conclusions on emerging scientific challenges and their implications on new requirements for coastal observations are drawn. Maintaining the provision of ecosystem services is seen as a keystone, leading to the need for Fit-for-purpose observing systems are needed for comprehensive observation/understanding of ecosystem across compartments, as well as integrated observing strategy between scientific domains, between observing technologies, and with strong benefit for simulation and forecasting services. An in-depth state-of-the-art on coastal observation is provided, through a review of scientific questions and technologies for observing physical, biogeochemical, biological and chemical EOVs in coastal regions. An extensive and recent bibliography is provided, and conclusions are drawn on the need for integrated observations and integration of data supporting a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and variability of coastal ecosystems under multiple pressures. Key ongoing technological revolutions are investigated, with focus on the digital revolution, encompassing IoT-enabled AI, edge computing, automation and robotics, and on the biotech revolution and omics-based techniques and technologies. Based on the investigation of these main drivers, a prospective vision of the coastal observation of the future is presented. By 2040, coastal ocean observing systems will be vastly more sophisticated, integrated, and inclusive, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to provide detailed, real-time insights into coastal environments. Citizen empowerment will provide a new momentum in observation, densifying the coverage in space and time, contributing to early identification of environmental changes and threats. The concept of FAIR-2 answering to the emerging requirement for FAIR and AI-Ready data is introduced. AI-ready data is a cornerstone for advancing ocean observation systems, enabling the deployment of sophisticated machine learning and AI techniques (including Digital Twins) to enhance our understanding and management of marine environments. These transformations will enhance our ability to protect and manage these vital ecosystems, ensuring their sustainability for future generations. JERICO ambitions to be a pro-active actor of these changes through its own expertise on science and technology related to coastal observations