Permafrost monitoring across Europe is carried out by a wide range of research groups, institutions and operational networks, often using diverse methods, parameters and data workflows. While this diversity reflects the complexity of permafrost environments, it also poses significant challenges for data comparability and large-scale assessment of permafrost change.
PermaCOST addresses this challenge by establishing a coordinated European network that brings together expertise from different regions, disciplines and monitoring traditions. By fostering collaboration between researchers, practitioners and stakeholders, the Action creates a shared platform for exchanging knowledge, aligning approaches and identifying common priorities in permafrost monitoring.
Through its Working Groups, PermaCOST supports the harmonisation of monitoring practices, data acquisition protocols and processing standards. This coordinated effort aims to improve the consistency and comparability of permafrost observations across sites and countries, enabling more robust assessments of permafrost state and evolution in a rapidly changing climate.
By strengthening connections between existing initiatives and encouraging cross-disciplinary dialogue, PermaCOST contributes to a more integrated and resilient European permafrost monitoring landscape, supporting both scientific advancement and evidence-based decision-making.
