Bringing Sargassum Observation and Prediction to Decision Makers

The Sargassum Working Group (SWG) of GEO Blue Planet will showcase its activities, addressing the ongoing challenges posed by Sargassum seaweed blooms across the tropical Atlantic and coastal regions. Since 2011, Sargassum blooms have affected coastal communities, harming tourism, fishing, health, and ecosystems. The SWG is working on innovative monitoring, prediction, and response strategies to mitigate these impacts. By advancing remote sensing, in situ observation, and predictive modeling, the group enhances real-time detection, forecasting, and data sharing, following FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable).

The SWG has been recognised as the monitoring and prediction expert group of the UNESCO/IOC and the UNEP Cartagena Convention SPAW RAC.

Key initiatives include establishing an Integrated Observing System to coordinate data from various sources and continuing the development of the Sargassum Information Hub to centralize information on monitoring and prediction. Additionally, the SWG is working to design community-led decision-support tools to help local stakeholders respond effectively. A priority for SWG is fostering international and regional cooperation, advancing technical standards for data interoperability, and engaging citizen scientists. This collaborative, data-driven approach aims to create robust early-warning systems and deliver actionable insights for sustainable coastal management and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals in affected regions​