How are IGOS themes related to GEOSS? The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Framework Document, 2004, states that the design approach for the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) builds on existing systems and data, as well as existing documentation describing observational needs in these areas. The IGOS Theme Reports play a primary role in this regard, as indicated in the GEO 2005 10-Year GEOSS implementation plan: "An integrated observation strategy (i.e. one that is coordinated, co-designed and shares data) is both more effective and more efficient than stand-alone strategies. This principle is exemplified by the work of the Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P)". The GEOSS implementation plan reference document further recommends to "Support implementation of actions called for in GCOS Implementation Plan and the relevant IGOS-P Theme Reports".

Given this direct link between IGOS and GEO, in 2006 the IGOS Partners and the GEO Secretariat began discussing a potential transition of IGOS themes into GEO. The Themes will work with GEO to ensure that Theme recommendations are represented in relatively broad GEO tasks.

The IGOS Cryosphere Theme team is now forming a Cryosphere Community of Practice (CP) for GEO/GEOSS. The Cryosphere CP and the IGOS Cryosphere Theme have the same core group. They are participating in the GEO Work Plans for 2006 and 2007-2009 through the CL-06-05 task. The task is to "Coordinate with the International Polar Year (IPY) to enhance the utilization of Earth observations in all appropriate realms (including, but not limited to, sea and land ice, permafrost, coastal erosion, marine and terrestrial ecosystem change, biodiversity monitoring and impacts of increased resource exploitation and marine transport)."

More information on GEO is available here.