From up there to down here – Big space data and the SDGs
This side event, within the context of the 2018 High Level Political Forum, will center on a panel discussion with countries (Australia, Switzerland, Canada, Greece, and Namibia) sharing: how Earth observation data is going to help them achieve the SDGs, the range of data and tools available, and opportunities to connect and collaborate to put the data to work.
The opportunity
Earth observation data assists in understanding how our environments are changing and to predict the impacts that any intervention may have. It can assist with decision making around our natural and built environments. Thanks to significant investment by governments and the private sector—and major advances in technology—an increasing amount of this data is readily available. However, as yet, not enough countries recognise the role it can play or are taking full advantage of the technology. We can change this.
Applying Earth Observation to Sustainable Development
Earth observation has a role to play in our efforts to achieve the SDGs. Without it, how can we measure water quality (SDG 6), land degradation (SDG 15), or forest cover (SDG 15)? Earth observation data also helps us respond to the central tenet of the 2030 Agenda, leave no-one behind as it can be collected from areas that are often inaccessible, helping us understand who needs reaching, ensuring that we target resources to the areas, peoples, and challenges that need it most.
The event
The event will centre on a panel discussion with countries (including Australia, Switzerland, Canada, Greece and Namibia) sharing: how Earth observation data is going to help them achieve the SDGs, the range of data and tools available, and opportunities to connect and collaborate to put the data to work.
Opening remarks: Senator the Hon. Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
Moderators: Dr Claire Melamed, Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data and Greg Scott, United Nations Statistics Division.
The panel discussion will be complemented by two hands-on workshops for practitioners, with inputs from representatives of space agencies such as NASA and ESA as well as relevant UN Conventions and bodies. These events will inspire you to take action on using Earth observation and will equip you with the knowledge on where to start.
When: Tuesday 17 July, 18:30–20:00 (local time)
Where: Conference Room 11, United Nations Headquarters, New York City
Light refreshments will be served.
More information can be found here.
