Carbon Cycle Observations: Gaps Threaten Climate Mitigation Policies

Successful management of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) requires robust and sustained carbon cycle observations. Yet key elements of a national observation network are lacking or at risk. A U.S. National Research Council review of the U.S. Climate Change Science Program earlier this year highlighted the critical need for a U.S. climate observing system to meet requirements of mitigation policies for improved carbon cycle observations. This Forum highlights the most significant gaps and threats to carbon cycle observations—including observations from satellites; in situ observations of land, ocean, and aquatic systems; and direct atmospheric measurements—and suggests ways to improve the U.S. national effort.