Why Ocean Colour? The Societal Benefits of Ocean-Colour Technology

Ocean colour radiometry by earth-orbiting spacecraft has already been conducted for some thirty years. The proof of concept that chlorophyll concentration could be observed all over the oceans on synoptic scales, with useful accuracy and precision, has been demonstrated beyond all doubt. Moreover, the results of ocean colour have revolutionised the field of biological oceanography, and have made important contributions to biogeochemistry, physical oceanography, ocean system modelling, fisheries, and coastal management. In this Monograph, we illustrate the many applications of data acquired by remote sensing of ocean colour, in both the research and operational arena. In other words, we seek to demonstrate the benefits to society of investment in ocean colour technology. The benefits are many and varied, and taken together make a very impressive case for making ocean colour a key requirement in earth observation as a societal imperative.JRC.H.3-Global environement monitorin