The acquisition and proliferation of large datasets presents one of the greatest opportunities in environmental science in recent years, particularly with the application of open data principles in dissemination. However, the effective utilisation of these data poses new, ever greater technical and organisational challenges. This article discusses the methods and benefits of the application of the European ENVRI infrastructure to atmospheric science in programmes such as ACTRIS, IAGOS and ICOS, in particular through the application of FAIR principles, and how this will help to push back the frontiers of atmospheric science.