The International Workshop on Cryosphere and Water Cycle Observation-Modelling Integration over the Third Pole was held from Jan. 26-27, 2019 in Beijing, China. The workshop was sponsored by Third Pole Environment (TPE), an international science program. Over 50 people attended, including top scientists from China, Sweden, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands, Norway, the U.S., Canada and Japan, as well as representatives from international organizations such as  UNESCO, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). The workshop focused on identifying key research questions and areas, research variables, processes for enhanced observation and model analyses. Attendees developed an action plan that highlighted convection, water vapor transport, glacier fluctuations, precipitation, water/hydrology and super site as key research areas.

The Third Pole region is now experiencing an accelerated water cycle, making it imperative to build an integrated observation network related to the cryosphere and water cycle. This workshop is expected to propel the integration of cryosphere and water cycle observation and modelling. It will also facilitate construction of a new observation and earth system model focusing on water issues. In addition, it will aid water security strategy and water management for the Third Pole region.