Abstract
The European Plate Observing System (EPOS) is an ESFRI research infrastructure project now entering the implementation phase (IP ? 01-Oct-2015). EPOS aims at creating a pan European infrastructure for solid Earth science supporting a safe, sustainable society. It is intended to integrate the diverse research infrastructures present in this field, using new escience opportunities to monitor and unravel the dynamic and complex Earth System. EPOS will enable innovative multidisciplinary research to achieve a better understanding of the physical and chemical processes that control earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides and tsunamis, as well as tectonics and Earth surface dynamics. It will improve our ability to safely exploit subsurface geo-resources, to manage geo-hazards, and to address environmental and human welfare issues. EPOS combines diverse Earth science disciplines creating a new approach cross-cutting traditional boundaries. By improving access to data, data products, services, software tools and facilities, its ultimate goal is to transform the European research landscape in solid Earth science, driving new discoveries and enabling innovative solutions that help Europe respond to the grand challenges facing it.