Plymouth sound from above

Copernicus Evolution - Research for harmonised and Transitional water Observation

Water quality is a worldwide issue affecting food production, industry, nature, recreation and ultimately human wellbeing. Satellites offer a cost-effective solution to monitor water quality at a global scale. A variety of methods and approaches are used for different water bodies such as oceans and lakes. The CERTO project, which was completed in September 2023, aimed to provide a harmonized capability to monitor water quality from lakes, through deltas, coastal waters and to the open ocean.

EU FlagThis project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 870349.

Responding to global needs

Monitoring and maintaining good water quality is pivotal to fulfilling the UN Sustainable Development Goals and is enshrined in European policy though the Water Framework Directive and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive.

CERTO’s harmonised water quality products support industry, policy-makers and academia and help nations to demonstrate compliance with national and international legislation and targets.

Six SDG icons relevant to the CERTO project
Leaflet | Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, CC-BY-SA, Imagery © Mapbox

Our areas of focus

The project focused on 6 case study areas of transitional water bodies which provide diverse conditions and environments.

New bio-optical processing system

Latest News

13 November 2023
CERTO scientists have developed an online system to improve the accuracy of above-water measurements of remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) by removing residual surface-reflected skylight.

Remote sensing reflectance (Rrs) is an essential data for water colour remote sensing studies to support algorithm development and atmospheric correction validation. Rrs measured

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