Zugspitze, Germany. Credits: Benjamin Jacobs, TUM (2025).
GTN-P has been officially accredited as a GCOS Affiliated Network
Tim Oaklay (left), GCOS Network Manager, handing over the network affiliation certificate to the Philippe Schoeneich (right), TOPC Ex-officio, during the GCOS Joint Panel Meeting in Harwell (UK), February 13, 2026. Credits: Antonio Bombelli (2026).
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has announced that three global terrestrial observing networks have officially been accredited by the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), marking an important milestone for international climate monitoring. Among the newly accredited networks is the Global Terrestrial Network for Permafrost (GTN-P), alongside the Global Terrestrial Network for Glaciers (GTN-G). These networks play a critical role in observing Essential Climate Variables (ECVs), which are fundamental for understanding changes in the terrestrial system, including interactions between the hydrosphere and cryosphere.
GCOS accreditation recognises the scientific value, data quality, and long-term sustainability of these networks. To achieve this status, networks must demonstrate global-scale monitoring, open data sharing, and adherence to GCOS Climate Monitoring Principles. For GTN-P, this accreditation highlights its vital contribution to tracking permafrost temperature and active layer dynamics, both of which are key indicators of climate change. The recognition is expected to strengthen the network’s visibility, support, and long-term stability, further enhancing its role within the global climate observing framework.