Ocean Climate Change and Ocean Acidification Indicators for Ireland’s Marine Strategy Framework Directive

Abstract

Oceanographic physical and chemical processes are fundamental to marine ecosystems, and human-induced changes to these conditions can significantly impact marine life. Monitoring these processes and their interactions with biological systems is crucial for understanding the current impacts of climate change and predicting future scenarios. Although EU legislation does not currently mandate the monitoring of ocean climate change, recent guidance from the European Commission suggests integrating climate change considerations into the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). This report examines how Ireland can incorporate climate change into MSFD assessments by linking new and existing indicators with Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs). Ireland's monitoring programs, which include fixed moorings, annual surveys, and sentinel sites, provide valuable data for national and international assessments. A comprehensive review identified 29 key indicators (atmospheric, physical, chemical, and biological) that are feasible for monitoring in Ireland. Recommendations include expanding long-term climate datasets, establishing new monitoring programs, and fostering collaborative research to enhance understanding of marine ecosystems and inform climate adaptation strategies.