The cross-cutting role of Ocean Decade Challenge 7 in achieving a sustainable and resilient global ocean observing system

With more than 90% of global warming occurring in the ocean, sea level rise doubling in the past 30 years, and the ever-increasing frequency and intensity of extreme events, ocean observations are essential for understanding and addressing some of these most pressing global challenges. Known observational needs can be addressed immediately by upgrading and expanding ocean observing capacity in under-observed areas such as polar regions, island nations and territories, coastal areas of developing countries, rapidly changing coastal systems, and the deep ocean. Enhancing existing and developing new cost-effective technologies for a range of user needs to maximize the reach of essential observations, supported by standardization and best practices for interoperability. Improved spatial and temporal coverage is urgently needed but also needs to be co-designed and fit-for-purpose. Democratizing access to ocean data and integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning into data pipelines can help unlock existing observational datasets into societally relevant, user-ready information. Recognizing that ocean observations are essential to the planet’s health is a critical cultural shift we must embrace in the next decade. Join us—individuals, organizations, governments, and communities—in turning this vision into action to ensure a sustainable and resilient ocean for future generations.