Metrology for harmonisation of field isotope ratio measurements

Climate change is a major threat facing society. The atmospheric burden of greenhouse gases (GHGs), such
as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), is continuously increasing due to
anthropogenic emissions, thereby causing global warming. Therefore, a reduction of emissions is urgently
needed. Measurements of isotopic ratios offer the possibility of discriminating anthropogenic from natural
contributions of GHGs. However, harmonised and standardised field calibration and measurement methods
are required to support measurements networks such as Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS) and
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The aim of the project is to develop a metrological
infrastructure (reference materials, guidelines, methods) that is directly linked to monitoring networks such as
ICOS to harmonised field isotope ratio measurements.