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Ocean science

Chemical oceanography

We monitor ocean chemistry to track climate change and protect Ireland’s marine environment.

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We study the chemistry of Irish waters to understand how the ocean is changing. Our data supports climate research, environmental protection, and policy decisions that affect you.

How we monitor the ocean

We collect chemical data from long-term ocean surveys across Irish waters. These include the Winter Environment Survey and the Rockall Ocean Climate Survey.
  • nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and silica
  • salinity and dissolved oxygen
  • carbon system parameters linked to climate change

Tracking CO2 uptake and ocean acidification

The oceans take up about 29% of anthropogenic CO2 emissions each year. While this partially mitigates climate change, it is driving ocean acidification and threatening marine ecosystems. We monitor ocean acidification to understand how rising carbon dioxide is changing seawater chemistry.
  • fixed monitoring stations
  • research surveys at sea
  • continuous systems on board research vessels

Long-term monitoring at Mace Head

Long-term monitoring data show changes in surface-water carbon dioxide and temperature over time.

Near-real-time observations

At Mace Head, we operate an ocean observatory that measures pH, carbon dioxide (pCO₂), oxygen, salinity, and nutrients in near real time. You can access this information here. We also collect water samples to check and validate the sensors and ensure the accuracy of the data collected.

Our research vessel, the RV Celtic Explorer, has been measuring surface CO₂ since 2017 as part of an international observing network. You can access this information here.

Sharing data and supporting decisions

We share our data with international databases, including GLODAP, ICES, and IOC-IODE. This means your work—whether in research, policy, or industry—can rely on globally recognised datasets.
  • track climate change in the ocean
  • assess environmental status
  • support sustainable management of marine resources

Contact our chemical oceanography team

If you use ocean data, we can help you access datasets, understand results, or collaborate on research.

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