Worldwide systematic observation of the climate system is a key prerequisite for advancing scientific knowledge on climate change. The Convention calls on Parties to promote and cooperate in systematic observation of the climate system, including through support to existing international programmes and networks, as indicated in Articles 4.1(g) and 5 of the Convention. A key dimension for the implementation of those Articles has been the cooperation with the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) secretariat of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other agencies participating in WMO's Climate Agenda. more >>

SBSTA 38 will focus its consideration on matters related to research, including the holding of a research dialogue.

By 25 March 2013, Parties are invited to submit their views on the following:

• Possible items for consideration as part of the research dialogue during SBSTA 38;
• Content of a workshop to be held by SBSTA 39 on the technical and scientific aspects of ecosystems with high-carbon reservoirs not covered by other agenda items under the Convention, such as coastal marine ecosystems, in the context of wider mitigation and adaptation efforts;
• Information on the technical and scientific aspects of emissions by sources, removals by sinks, and reservoirs of all greenhouse gases, including emissions and removals from terrestrial ecosystems such as steppe, savannah, tundra and peatlands, with a view to identifying and quantifying the impact of human activities; this information would be considered as a theme for the SBSTA 38 research dialogue, taking into account the submissions received on possible items for consideration as part of the next dialogue. Regional and international research programmes and organizations are also invited to provide such information.

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