The Southern Ocean Observing System (SOOS): an update

This Background Paper reports on progress with the Southern Ocean Observing System (SOOS), noting in particular the importance of the SOOS to the work of CCAMLR and the key role of CCAMLR in implementation of the SOOS, for example through the CCAMLR Ecosystem Monitoring Programme (CEMP). CCAMLR are invited to appoint an ex-officio representative to the SOOS Steering Committee.

A SOOS Initial Science and Implementation Strategy will be published in October 2011, an International Project Office has recently been established, hosted by the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies in Hobart, Australia, and an Executive Officer, Louise Newman has been appointed. Currently, a website is being developed and a Scientific Steering Committee is being selected.