EU survey on Earth observation in a global context

Have your say on how to make the most out of Earth observation!

The Earth’s atmosphere, oceans and landscapes are changing rapidly, with human activities being a major driver. Monitoring and modelling these changes are critical because they allow governments, society and the private sector to make informed decisions about climate, energy, food security, natural hazards, health and other societal challenges.

Earth Observations (EO) are remote sensing or in situ measurements collected by a wide diversity of sensors on-board various monitoring platforms such as ships, buoys, aircrafts, balloons, drones, or satellites. They can also be ground-based or acquired by citizens using for instance their smart phones or other mobile devices. Such monitoring sensors and the related Earth observation information systems are managed by a high diversity of public and private entities around the world.

Aiming at improving Earth observations, the intergovernmental Group on Earth Observations (GEO) provides a framework where governments and international organisations can develop new projects and coordinate their strategies and investments. GEO’s main role is to develop and implement a Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) which aims to facilitate discovery, access and integration of global Earth observations in order to improve environmental decision-making.

Why this survey?

Through this EU public consultation, the European Commission is actively seeking contributions by all those in Europe interested in the global context of Earth observation in order to help:

- estimate general awareness of and stance on Earth observations (EO), GEO and GEOSS;

- appreciate how to maximize EU benefits from an increased Earth observation coordination through GEO;

- collect views on a set of possible actions at EU level in the field of global Earth observation and GEO.

Contributions are expected until 20/04/2015. Direct link to the consultation.