Artificial Intelligence for Earth Observations

Concept

The proposed Artificial Intelligence for Earth Observations (AI4EO) Enabler within GEO aims to integrate AI into Earth Intelligence by establishing a network of AI experts across the GEO community. The Enabler’s scope includes advancing AI applications within the GEO Work Programme, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration, and addressing ethical considerations related to AI in Earth observations. It will serve as a central hub to explore, develop, and apply AI-driven EO solutions that support GEO’s Post-2025 Strategy.

As global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and disaster risk increase, there is a growing need for advanced tools that can process complex EO data at scale. AI offers transformative potential for improving data analysis, enhancing predictive capabilities, and providing actionable insights. Many GEO Work Programme activities already apply AI, but a dedicated Enabler is essential to streamline efforts, standardize approaches, and expand AI’s use to deliver meaningful, accessible Earth Intelligence.

Given the rapid advancements in AI and the urgency of addressing global environmental challenges, the establishment of AI4EO is timely. With AI now prioritized in the Post-2025 GEO Strategy, the Enabler will help GEO stay at the forefront of technological innovation, enabling inclusive access to Earth Intelligence services.

AI4EO is expected to foster greater collaboration and knowledge sharing across GEO by organizing events, workshops, and training sessions. Key outputs include a comprehensive report on AI’s current and future role within GEO, a white paper on AI’s potential in EO, and a network of AI experts. These efforts will support decision-making, expand the adoption of AI across GEO, and contribute to GEO’s goal of providing accessible, actionable Earth Intelligence.

Objectives

Promote Cross-Community Collaboration on AI for EO:

AI4EO aims to connect experts in AI, data science, and EO from various GEO communities, including members of different GWP Focus Areas. By creating a network of AI practitioners, the Enabler facilitates cross-disciplinary knowledge sharing and collaborative innovation on AI-driven EO applications, ensuring that advancements in AI can be applied to multiple sectors.

Support Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange:

AI4EO will organize training sessions, webinars, and workshops to share best practices, tools, and techniques for applying AI in EO. This objective ensures that GEO Members and associated organizations have the knowledge and resources needed to integrate AI into their EO activities, particularly in areas such as climate, biodiversity, disaster resilience, and sustainable development.

Develop and Disseminate Crosscutting AI Tools and Resources:

AI4EO will curate and advocate for accessible, reproducible AI-driven tools and applications that can be used across various GEO initiatives. These tools—covering areas such as image classification, change detection, predictive modeling, and real-time monitoring—serve as cross-cutting assets that enhance EO capabilities and make Earth Intelligence more actionable and accessible.

Enhance Data-Driven Decision-Making and Policy Support:

By integrating AI insights into GEO’s data ecosystem, the Enabler aims to translate complex data into actionable intelligence. This supports evidence-based decision-making and aligns with international frameworks, benefiting sectors such as disaster risk reduction, water management, and urban resilience.