CryoSCOPE

CryoSCOPE: Cryosphere Science Concluding in new Observations and Productive Exploitation

CryoSCOPE project is focused on understanding the physical and chemical processes of the Cryosphere–Atmosphere–Hydrosphere (CAH) system in cold regions such as Finland, Iceland, the Himalayas, the Alps, Norway, and Svalbard. It combines in-situ and remote sensing observations with advanced modelling and AI tools to improve Earth System Models and develop practical applications, such as enhanced winter transport, optimized hydropower, predicting glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risks, and understanding drought impacts. The project predicts how climate-driven changes in these processes affect ecological and economic systems, ultimately supporting climate adaptation and resilience in vulnerable cold-region environments.

Objectives and Ambition

1) PROCESSES: Advance understanding of atmosphere–cryosphere–hydrology interactions using integrated modelling to assess snow and surface-albedo feedback, aerosol impacts, hydrological partitioning, thermogenic methane release, and GLOF dynamics.

2) MODELLING: Validate and refine process-based and data-driven atmospheric–glacier–snow–hydrologic models to improve ESM performance, enhance process realism, and more tightly integrate observational constraints for robust regional environmental predictions.

3) IMPACTS: Apply advanced modelling outputs to deliver user-oriented tools and web-based visualisation platforms that enhance winter trafficability, optimise hydropower, map GLOF hazards, and assess drought risks across northern cold regions.

4) DISSEMINATE & ENGAGE: Disseminate and exploit project outcomes through targeted communication, strong project branding, and immersive engagement activities—including winter schools, stakeholder field trips, virtual journeys, and a final forum—to strengthen awareness, collaboration, and long-term resilience in cryosphere-relevant sectors.