In 2006 we began planning for an Institutional Initiative to

address the creation of better instruments and methods for predicting the

consequences of the remarkable changes in ocean CO2/pH that are now occurring,and that are inextricably linked to the CO2 driven global warming. These combined
chemical and physical changes may well have profound consequences for marine

ecosystems, perhaps particularly those involving calcifying organisms. This has

emerged as a powerful, broad, and fully international scientific theme. It is

anticipated that several additional Institute scientists (Robison, Smith, Haddock,

Scholin, and possibly others) and engineers, and many external national and

international colleagues will contribute to this effort. Thus the management style will

be open, and we will seek coordination of effort and sharing of knowledge and

resources. We suggest that engineering resources be coordinated through this

proposal since much of the sensor development, software, and hardware components

will have elements in common that can be used by all, but that particular scientific

experiments be identified as discrete components of established scientific laboratories

since this permits the greatest flexibility for scientists to be productive, and for

recognition of their achievements. Effort in 2007 will be devoted to building this

larger program while solidifying gains already made, to establishing links to external

funding sources, and to obtaining permits for the essential work.