The World Meteorological Organization’s ruling congress has backed a strategic shift to a more integrated “Earth system” approach that aims to break down barriers between different research fields, as well as approving plans to better connect science with services and policymaking.
The “Earth system” approach looks at the planet as a whole, linking the atmosphere, the ocean and hydrosphere, the terrestrial realm, the cryosphere and even the biosphere.
Such integration is essential given the challenges posed by climate change, as well as the ever-increasing depth and breadth of scientific data made available thanks to rapid technological change.