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Essential Ocean Variables

GOOS Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs) are the minimum set of ocean variables needed to assess the state of the ocean and the variability of important oceanic processes, and to provide data that benefits society.

A shared framework

Such a globally coordinated framework allows the ocean observing community to focus its efforts on the minimum set of variables that deliver the maximum value, and makes data from around the globe comparable.

GOOS currently defines and stewards 37 EOVs across four domains: physics, biogeochemistry, biology and ecosystems, and cross-disciplinary.

Did you know?

Numerous EOVs are also identified as Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) by the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), and Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) by the Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO BON).

Apart from the EOVs, several GOOS ocean observing networks also collect vital marine atmospheric observations that feed into weather forecasts and early warning systems.

[EOV × Network matrix — interactive module placeholder]

How are EOVs adopted?

Overseen by GOOS Expert Panels, the EOVs are selected based on their direct impact on public safety, economic development, and environmental health, and their feasibility to be measured globally in a sustained and cost-effective way.