Terrestrial Observation Panel for Climate (TOPC)

The Terrestrial Observation Panel for Climate (TOPC) was established to develop a balanced and integrated system of in situ, air- and space borne observations of the terrestrial ecosystems for long-term monitoring of land (biosphere, cryosphere, hydrosphere and anthroposphere) properties and attributes. These properties and attributes: i) control the physical, biological and chemical processes affecting climate; ii) are themselves affected by climate change, are indicators of climate change and provide information on impacts of climate change; and iii) can support policy relevant decisions and actions about, among others, climate adaptation and mitigation, global stocktake and national GHG inventories.

TOPC is co-sponsored by the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP).

Terrestrial Observation Panel for Climate (TOPC), Terms of Reference

Key activities

• Identification of terrestrial observation requirements
• Assisting the establishment of observing networks (in-situ, airborne and satellite-based)
• Guiding observation standards and norms
• Facilitating access to climate data and information and its assimilation
• Encouraging the use of best practices and promoting climate studies and assessments.