The Svalbard Integrated Arctic Earth Observing System (SIOS) is a regional observational system for long-term measurements in and around Svalbard, addressing Earth System Science (ESS) questions related to Global Change. The upgraded observing system and research facilities offered by SIOS build on the extensive observation capacity and diverse world class research infrastructure provided by many nations already established in Svalbard. This includes a substantial capability for utilising remote sensing resources to complement ground-based observations. From this foundation, SIOS envisions a significant contribution to the systematic development of new methods and design for the implementation of observational networks in Arctic environments. SIOS is aiming at more efficient use and better integration of the observing system based on a distributed data management system, an open access program that includes logistical support, as well as training and education activities. The annual State of the Environmental Science in Svalbard (SESS) report summarises the knowledge about the state and development of key parameters (“core data”) as well as analysis of how parameters influence other key entities. It also summarises the work that has been done in the last year within the SIOS cooperation to optimise the observing system and gain fresh insight into unanswered questions in Arctic Earth System Science. Read more: www.sios-svalbard.org
