A photo shows participants in the final IASON FP7 workshop, where a framework for cooperative research centered on Earth observations of the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions.

The European Commission recently concluded an effort to coordinate Earth-observation data for better environmental outcomes in the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. The IASON FP7 project coordinated action on a permanent network of scientific and nonscientific stakeholders.

There were three primary objectives:

1. Coordinating the use of Earth observation to address climate change

2. Research and innovation in Earth observation for resource efficiency

3. Improving raw material management

Over the program’s two years, knowledge networks were established to improve local and regional capacities. The effort assessed training and knowledge gaps, and held local and regional events to improve understanding and expertise.

Some of threats to be addressed with the observations include sea-level rise, water pollution, water and soil management, environmental implications from mining, biodiversity loss, and food security.

The effort also helped establish a toolkit and methodologies to foster future strategic cooperation. A focus was placed on knowledge transfer and the means to coordinate understanding with compatible observations.