TRICUSO aims to expand observation capacity in the vast Southern Ocean, home to consortium partner South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI). Based in the Falkland Islands, SAERI operates the research vessel Pharos, which will be used in TRICUSO for the deployments of floats and a wave glider, and their flights. We asked CEO Paul Brickle to share some thoughts on the vast waters down under and why TRICUSO is an important project.
It must be a little lonely, being the only research institute in your neck of the woods?
The Southern Ocean is vast, and with so few land masses scattered across it, the population out here is naturally quite small. Being the only operator based in the Falklands and working regularly in South Georgia actually puts us in a pretty unique position. It gives us the opportunity to play a central role in supporting research efforts in this part of the world, and we really enjoy being able to facilitate projects that help deepen the understanding of such a remote and important environment. While we don’t see a huge amount of activity that we aren’t involved in, that’s part of what makes our work so rewarding — it feels like we’re contributing to something quite special.
With the rising interest in the Deep Ocean Sink and the Southern Ocean, are you seeing more interest?
Absolutely, we’re definitely seeing more interest! The Southern Ocean plays such a crucial role in regulating the global climate, so it’s no surprise that more and more scientists are turning their attention here. There’s a sense of excitement in the research community about uncovering how this region works — from understanding carbon storage in the deep ocean to seeing how these vast currents shape weather patterns around the world. For us, it’s fantastic to be in a position where we can support that work and help make these projects possible. Being right here, we get to be part of some incredibly important science, and that’s really rewarding.
So it is not a surprise to see a project like TRICUSO focussing on the Southern Ocean?
It makes perfect sense. TRICUSO is a really exciting and innovative project, and we’re thrilled to see this kind of focus on the Southern Ocean. It’s a fantastic initiative that will allow us to test cutting-edge sensors and push the boundaries of what we know about carbon flux in this region, especially when it comes to accurate measurement. Measuring CO2 in the ocean isn’t straightforward — there are still some big challenges to overcome — and projects like TRICUSO are crucial for developing better techniques and filling those knowledge gaps. It’s a great opportunity to combine technology, science, and collaboration to better understand how the Southern Ocean functions within the global climate system.
What is it about ocean observation that you are most interested in?
My background is in quantitative marine ecology, so I’ve always been fascinated by the diversity of life in our oceans and the way different species and communities interact. What really interests me about ocean observation is how it allows us to connect those dots — to see not just what’s living where, but why, and how those patterns are shifting over time. Climate change is already having a huge impact on biodiversity and ecosystems, and we’re starting to see species ranges extend, habitats transform, and even the way ecosystems function begin to change.
What is the most beautiful thing you've seen in the Southern Ocean?
Kelp forests underwater. That’s the most interesting thing I’ve seen in the Southern Ocean. More specifically in the sub-Antarctic, part of the Southern Ocean. It’s sort of iconic, in terms of how massive the kelp forest is. And underwater, you get this cathedral like light passing through them, which is quite a sight to behold, really.
What do you think is important to know about the Southern Ocean, and how TRICUSO will help with some of the societal challenges we're facing?
The Southern Ocean is key to understanding climate regulation. It’s a completely connected piece of ocean. It’s not broken by landmasses. There are a few islands in the way that bisect the Southern Ocean and the Antarctic. And it’s fundamental in terms of climate regulation. It’s a big carbon sink. But TRICUSO will allow us to better understand the chemistry, and the flux dynamics of carbon dioxide in that system. Using automation, as well as platforms and ships of opportunity. From my point of view, it is an exciting project, very innovative and very important.
For more information about Paul, visit the SAERI website here.
