Cross-ECV applications

Tipping Elements Projects

Use of Earth Observation for Tipping Elements Research

Tipping elements and abrupt changes in the climate system have been identified as an increasing risk with higher levels of global warming. World leaders recognised the need to better understand these processes and their impacts during the COP27 Sharm el-Sheikh Implementation Plan.

The projects below aim to strengthen the levels of confidence in our understanding tipping elements' risk and abrupt changes in the Earth system, their underlying processes, interactions and impact by harnessing satellite-derived Earth observations, including climate data records generated within the framework of the ESA Climate Change Initiative.

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RESETlakes

Enhancing understanding of the risk and processes associated with tipping elements, abrupt changes or transitions in lake ecosystems using Earth observation data and numerical modelling

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CryoTipping

CryoTipping combines Earth Observation and numerical modelling to detect marine ice sheet instabilities in the Amundsen Sea Sector, with a focus on Thwaites glacier.

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PREDICT

Predicting Resilience and Early Detection of Impending Climate Transitions in key tipping elements including Amazon rainforest dieback, dryland vegetation, and permafrost thaw.

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Tipping Points in the Southern Ocean Overturning (TiPSOO)

Exploring early warning signals and evaluating the risks linked to tipping points in the Southern Ocean Overturning Circulation and potential effects on global climate.

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SIRENE

Satellite Information for Resilience Monitoring and Early warning of Ecosystem Tipping Points (SIRENE) project

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Tipping Points and Abrupt Changes in Marine Ecosystems​ (TIME)

Improving early warnings of marine tipping points using satellites, models, and in-situ data.

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