river in the forest

Our Mission

GEO at a Glance

What is GEO?
The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is a global collaboration dedicated to understanding our Earth in all its complexity. As a collaborative intergovernmental body, GEO is dedicated to co-producing user-driven Earth Intelligence solutions. By collecting and sharing vital information, ranging from satellite images of forests to oceanic temperature readings and beyond, GEO provides a comprehensive view of our planet's well-being, allowing us to monitor and safeguard its health. These are not just datasets; they're the tools that inform decisions, shaping policies and initiatives worldwide that guides society towards a sustainable future.
Why GEO?
Our planet faces challenges that don't stop at borders. From the pressing issues of climate change, the alarming loss of biodiversity, to the widespread pollution affecting our lands, skies, and seas, there's much at stake. While the challenges are integrated, the global response often remains fragmented. Among the ever-growing flood of information and data sources, there's a noticeable gap in cohesive global partnerships. This is where GEO steps in, striving to unify these fragmented efforts and championing inclusivity in seeking holistic solutions for global challenges.
How GEO works?
At its core, GEO is a cooperative forum and operates through collaboration among its member countries and participating organisations, each with their unique perspectives and data sets. By sharing this wealth of information and research, we ensure that decisions made for Earth's future are based on the best available knowledge, fostering an all-inclusive user-centric approach to planetary care.
GEO achievements:
Through the collaborative spirit of GEO, we've accomplished much more than would be possible individually. We've developed a deeper understanding of climate change dynamics, accelerated global responses to disasters, and worked tirelessly to ensure that our planet's health metrics are available and accessible to all. These collective achievements are milestones in our journey to a more sustainable world.
Why partner with GEO?
Becoming a partner with GEO is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking global community. It's not just about access to a vast reservoir of Earth data, but also about being part of a movement, a collective ambition to ensure our planet thrives for generations to come. By partnering, organisations, countries, and individuals amplify their impact, gain insights from global experts, and contribute to a shared vision of a brighter, sustainable future for all.

Mission and Vision

Our mission:

GEO co-produces user-driven Earth intelligence solutions that inform decisions and accelerate action on global, societal, and environmental challenges, leveraging its unique position as an established intergovernmental body with a strong and inclusive partnership.

Our vision:

A world where trusted Earth intelligence is universally accessible and empowers society to achieve a sustainable future.

Our offer:

GEO empowers anyone to use and contribute to Earth intelligence to make better decisions for people and the planet.

What We Strive for

At GEO, we serve as a collaborative platform where science, policy, and community interests unite for the greater 

Enhanced coordination:
Building on our unique role to lead the development of integrated Earth Observation (EO) solutions, we focus on coordination from global to local levels, sharing beneficial practices and building capacity.
Broad engagement:
We actively engage with youth, indigenous communities, women, and other groups to amplify voices who's potential to contribute to Earth Observation solutions has not yet been fully realized.
Transformative programmes:
Our strategic work programme activities generate high-added value towards policy goals, support sustained services for decision-making, build capacity, and advance equity.
Inclusivity:
We are committed to increasing engagement and building capacity, especially in the global South. There is a call to fully address and embed Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI) principles in all GEO undertakings.

Our Unique Strengths

GEO is governed by nations
GEO is governed by nations
As an intergovernmental body, GEO is steered by the collective will of governments. This fosters a high level of trust and ensures that our Earth Intelligence solutions are not just innovative but also reliable and actionable.
GEO is a collaboration of expertise
GEO is a collaboration of expertise
Our global network spans multiple disciplines and sectors, making us a hub for transdisciplinary knowledge and solutions. Unlike other coordination frameworks, GEO’s cross-sectoral approach amplifies our value, enabling us to address complex challenges with nuanced, demand-driven solutions.
GEO operates across scales
GEO operates across scales
Our reach extends from the global to the local, offering insights that are both broad and deep. This scalability allows us to be agile, responsive, and innovative, adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of our planet.
GEO is a living ecosystem of inclusivity
GEO is a living ecosystem of inclusivity
We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation that welcomes a diverse range of stakeholders—from governmental bodies to non-profit organisations, from scientific experts to decision-makers, as well as local communities and indigenous peoples.

By incorporating voices from the grassroots to the global stage, we ensure a more holistic, equitable, and culturally sensitive approach to Earth observation and planetary care.

By joining GEO, you’re not just gaining access to a wealth of Earth data; you’re becoming part of a global movement committed to ensuring a sustainable future for all. Our inclusivity amplifies our collective impact, allowing us to share invaluable insights and contribute to a thriving, inclusive planet for everyone.