Evidence-based decisions and impact through National GEOs

Introduction

Globally, investment in Earth observation (EO) satellite capabilities and open access to data and technologies are enabling the widespread application of environmental intelligence to tackle challenges at scale. Yet, many low- and middle-income countries are lagging in infrastructure, capacity, and expertise to tap into advances made in EO technologies. A coordinated and collaborative effort among national agencies could strengthen capacities, increase understanding, and facilitate access and use of relevant EO data, tools and services for evidence-based decisions.

Within the GEO community, consensus exists to pursue an impact-driven approach to producing and delivering Earth observation (EO) data, tools, and services to countries. Pursuing this approach will require strong engagement and partnerships among various stakeholders across the entire EO value chain. In several countries, stakeholders are already defining models for national GEOs and how they can increase their capacities to collect, process and utilise EO data, tools, and services for evidence-based decisions at local and national levels. The presence of national GEOs is helping countries effectively define national EO priorities and requirements for data sharing, limiting duplication across agencies, and leveraging investments for projects and initiatives for wider impact.

As more countries become interested in establishing national GEOs, it becomes necessary to understand the opportunities and implications associated with this. This event will bring together government agencies, academic and research institutions, private sector actors, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations (CSOs) across the EO value chain. Participants will discuss various models of national coordination mechanisms that provide opportunities for agencies to strengthen partnerships, understand their interconnected data needs, and integrate EO data, tools, and services in their work to create solutions.

Key questions that will guide the presentation of country experiences and discussion will include:

• What is the value proposition for other national organizations to join this effort?
• What are the national programmes or activities that the national GEO seeks to advance?
• What are the mechanisms used to bring other organizations into the collaboration?
• What are the difficulties or barriers encountered by the GEO principal institution when bringing organizations together?
• What are the recommendations for countries that are considering this model?
• What should be the role of the regional GEOs in the process of creating national GEOs?