OpenWeather Foundation is honoured to participatein an important World Meteorological Organization meeting on Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) implementation.

Thanks to Rémy Giraud and Ana Heureux, PhD for the organisation and Ashish Raval MS, MBA and HydroMeteorological and Environmental Industry (HMEI) for an opportunity to reconnect with industry leaders, infrastructure specialists and decision-makers.

The Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) is a specialized United Nations fund established to address critical gaps in weather and climate observations, particularly in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). By providing sustained financial and technical support, SOFF aims to enhance the collection and international sharing of essential weather and climate data, thereby improving global weather forecasts, early warning systems, and climate information services. ​

Key Objectives of SOFF:

• Closing Data Gaps: SOFF focuses on increasing the availability of surface-based weather and climate observations in data-sparse regions, which is vital for accurate forecasting and climate resilience. ​

• Implementing GBON Standards: The facility supports countries in adhering to the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON) regulations, which set internationally agreed-upon standards for data collection and sharing. ​

• Enhancing Early Warnings: By improving observational data, SOFF contributes to the United Nations' "Early Warnings for All" initiative, aiming to ensure that everyone is protected by early warning systems by 2027. ​

Structure and Partnerships:

SOFF operates as a UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund, co-created by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive support, combining technical expertise with development and environmental considerations. ​

Phased Implementation

The facility's implementation is structured in phases:​

• Readiness: Assessing countries' current observational capacities and developing tailored plans to achieve GBON compliance.​

• Investment: Providing funding and technical assistance to implement the necessary infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives.​

• Compliance: Ensuring sustained operation and maintenance of observation networks, along with consistent international data sharing. ​

• By addressing foundational data needs, SOFF plays a pivotal role in enhancing global climate resilience, supporting informed decision-making, and safeguarding communities against the adverse impacts of climate change.​