Representation Uncertainty in the Earth Sciences

Abstract

AbstractThe first Joint Workshop on Representation Uncertainty in the Earth Sciences was held in March 2021. This brought together the Earth observation, data assimilation and forecast verification and post‐processing communities, alongside metrologists to discuss the definition and quantification of representation uncertainty within the Earth sciences. The aim of the workshop was to facilitate cross‐disciplinary discussion, establishing where existing methodologies could be shared and to foster future collaboration. A key outcome of the workshop was a working definition of representation uncertainty applicable across all the Earth science communities, which is presented in this white paper. The cross‐disciplinary discussions at the workshop highlighted the need for scientists to work with metrologists to establish a common vocabulary for uncertainties, accessible to Earth science applications. Further recommendations included regular workshops to discuss progress in defining and quantifying representation uncertainty and awareness of cross‐disciplinary funding opportunities to further address representation uncertainty issues.