UN Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER)

📢 UN-SPIDER and ZFL Launched SPEAR II Project to Continue Enhancing the Use of Space-based Technologies for Disaster Management   🌍 In a continued effort to bridge the gap between the disaster management and space communities, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) through its UN-SPIDER programme and the Center for Remote Sensing of Land Surfaces (ZFL) at the University of Bonn have officially launched the SPEAR II project!   🔗 SPEAR II (Spaceborne Earth Observation Applications for Emergency Response and Disaster Risk Reduction) will run from 2024 to 2029, building on the success of its predecessor. The project is generously supported by the Space Agency at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and addresses the challenges of hazards through space-based technologies.   Background 📅 The first phase of the SPEAR project, running from 2019-2024, contributed successfully to disaster risk reduction by utilizing space technologies.   🌐 SPEAR II aims to continue and expand these efforts, focusing on building capacities through Earth observation technologies, while fostering international cooperation.   What SPEAR II Brings: 🛰️ Space Data for Disaster Response: SPEAR II will facilitate the use of satellite data and tools to support emergency response and preparedness efforts worldwide, especially in vulnerable regions.   🤝 International and Regional Collaboration: Through conferences, expert meetings, and workshops, the project will enable dialogue and cooperation between the space and disaster management communities.   🌍 Advisory Support for African Countries: SPEAR II will offer direct advisory support to African nations, empowering them with the tools and data needed to strengthen their disaster management capabilities.   📚 Knowledge Management and Awareness: The project will continue to raise awareness and share knowledge on the opportunities offered by the space community to mitigate disaster impacts.   Kick-Off Event Highlights: 🗓️ On 08 October 2024, ZFL and UN-SPIDER held a kick-off meeting in Bonn, Germany, marking the official start of the project. Participants from German institutions, as well as representatives from African and Latin American countries, discussed ways to enhance the outcomes of SPEAR II and maximize its impact.   🚀 SPEAR II will serve as a driver in harnessing the power of space technologies to save lives, protect infrastructure, and build more resilient communities in the face of escalating natural hazards.   🔗 Stay tuned for more updates on the SPEAR II project and upcoming events!   #DisasterRiskReduction #SpaceTechnology #SendaiFramework #SPEARII #UNSPIDER #DLR #ZFL #EarthObservation #Resilience United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

🌍🚀 The latest study ‘United in Science’ of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) with the contribution of the UNOOSA is out! The study brought together the latest climate science-related updates from key partner organisations and highlights the critical role of geospatial technology for a more sustainable future. 3 key takeaways: 📡 The study highlights how advances in satellite technology and Earth Observation have greatly improved the frequency and accuracy of environmental monitoring, climate predictions, and weather forecasts.    🤝 In order to leverage space-based Earth data for global climate goals, the paper advocates for increased international cooperation, creative finance and optimizing satellite technology for meteorological, water, and environmental applications through enhanced governance and public-private collaborations. 🌐 Tracking important climate variables like ocean temperatures, aerosols, and hydrological patterns depends heavily on high-resolution satellite data. Weather forecasting and efforts to adapt to climate change are also improving as a result of these advancements.  📖 For more details and to access the full report here: https://lnkd.in/dbUXJ_bK  #ClimateAction #SpaceForClimate #UnitedInScience #EarthObservations #WMO #UNOOSA #eOurCommonAgenda #GlobalGoals UN Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER)

🇺🇳 #BREAKING Heads of State from 193 countries just agreed the Pact for the Future. It notes the importance of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (#COPUOS) to address active debris removal, space traffic & space resources, & encouraged a #UNISPACEIV conference in 2027. COPUOS’ work, over the last 65 years to deliver global space governance, underpins today’s global space economy & is evolving to respond to the urgent needs concerning space sustainability & solutions. 👀 Here’s what the Pact says about the peaceful uses of space: 🌐 We will strengthen international cooperation for the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes and for the benefit of all humanity. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 identifies outer space as the province of all humankind. Humanity’s reliance on space is increasing day-by-day and the Outer Space Treaty must be recognized as the cornerstone of the international legal regime governing outer space activities. We are living through an age of increased access and activities in outer space. The growth in the number of objects in outer space, the return of humans to deep space, and our expanding reliance on outer space systems demands urgent action. Safe and sustainable use of space plays a critical role in the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. The opportunities for people and planet are enormous, but there are also risks that must be managed. We encourage the COPUOS to further consult on the proposal to hold a fourth United Nations Conference on the Peaceful Exploration of Outer Space (UNISPACE IV) in 2027. We decide to: a) Reaffirm the importance of the widest possible adherence to and full compliance with the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and discuss the establishment of new frameworks for space traffic, space debris, and space resources through the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. b) Invite the engagement of relevant private sector, civil society, and other relevant stakeholders, where appropriate and applicable, to contribute to intergovernmental processes related to the increased safety and sustainability of outer space. ♻️🛰 What next for #SpaceSustainability? #UNOOSA is: 1️⃣ Supporting States on the implentation of space law, policy & governance (see case studies here: https://lnkd.in/eRhgzVQP) 2️⃣ Leveraging industry experience to inform deliberations of COPUOS on STM, ADR, etc, to ensure delegates can better respond to proposals 3️⃣ Levelling the playing field in terms of understanding the components of STM through capacity-building for Member States 4️⃣ Completing, updating, & making operationally relevant the list of Points of Contacts started in 2019 pursuant to the LTS Guidelines 5️⃣ Convening operational experts from industry & government to develop a shared understanding of needs & possible consensus 6️⃣ Working to secure a market for ADR to incentivise investment, scale solutions, & stimulate interaction on associated issues such as cost #OurCommonFuture

🌍🚀 The latest study ‘United in Science’ of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) with the contribution of the UNOOSA is out! The study brought together the latest climate science-related updates from key partner organisations and highlights the critical role of geospatial technology for a more sustainable future. 3 key takeaways: 📡 The study highlights how advances in satellite technology and Earth Observation have greatly improved the frequency and accuracy of environmental monitoring, climate predictions, and weather forecasts.    🤝 In order to leverage space-based Earth data for global climate goals, the paper advocates for increased international cooperation, creative finance and optimizing satellite technology for meteorological, water, and environmental applications through enhanced governance and public-private collaborations. 🌐 Tracking important climate variables like ocean temperatures, aerosols, and hydrological patterns depends heavily on high-resolution satellite data. Weather forecasting and efforts to adapt to climate change are also improving as a result of these advancements.  📖 For more details and to access the full report here: https://lnkd.in/dbUXJ_bK  #ClimateAction #SpaceForClimate #UnitedInScience #EarthObservations #WMO #UNOOSA #eOurCommonAgenda #GlobalGoals UN Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER)

#UnitedinScience: Incredible advancements in recent decades in space-based Earth observations offer vast opportunities for the future. High-resolution and high-frequency observations of the Earth system are crucial for effective weather forecasting, climate prediction and environmental monitoring. However, there are big challenges. These include gaps remain in accurately measuring critical ocean, climate, aerosol and hydrological variables and in covering sparsely observed areas such as the cryosphere. Thanks to UN Office for Outer Space Affairs, UNOOSA, and @EUMETSAT for contributing this chapter. https://bit.ly/3Xve8UO

United in Science 2024! I. The Need for Action The science is clear – rising greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric concentrations are leading to changes in key climate indicators and affecting extreme events, contributing to devastating impacts globally and underscoring the need for urgent and ambitious action to achieve a sustainable future II. Advances Advances in weather, climate, water and related environmental and social sciences can enhance our understanding of the Earth system and boost progress towards achieving a sustainable future for all III. Transdisciplinary Approach However, global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development cannot be addressed by science and technology alone – they require a transdisciplinary approach to co-create and implement solutions IV. Collaboration Collaboration across scales is essential to address gaps and challenges and harness the full potential of weather, climate, water and related environmental and social sciences to ensure that their benefits are accessible to all V. The Early Warnings for All (EW4All) Initiative The initiative exemplifies how integrating global efforts across natural and social sciences, technological advances and transdisciplinary approaches can protect lives, livelihoods and the environment from natural hazards VI. Recommendations 1. Enhance the quality, availability, accessibility, and interoperability of data 2. Boost investments in and access to emerging science and technology 3. Scale up education, training and capacity development, particularly in developing countries Check out the report compiled by the World Meteorological Organization here: https://lnkd.in/dQZJPwqy #innovation #sustainability #climate #transdisciplinarity #collaboration

📢 Registration is now open for the United Nations International Conference on Space-based Technologies for Disaster Risk Reduction 2024! 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eUKjpHGs 🌏 Join us in Beijing, China from November 19-21, 2024, for an in-depth look at “Early Warnings for All” – a global initiative aimed at strengthening Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS), and how space technologies can contribute, especially in developing regions. 🌐 This year's conference, co-organized by the UN-SPIDER Beijing Office, China's Ministry of Emergency Management (MEM), the China National Space Administration (CNSA) and key regional partners, will focus on the critical role of space-based technologies in disaster preparedness and risk reduction. What to Expect: 🛰️ Satellite Advancements: Explore the latest in Earth observation and satellite technology for identifying, monitoring, and assessing disaster risks. 🌪️ Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems: Enhance your knowledge on improving early warnings in disaster-prone regions, crucial as climate change and urbanization intensify natural disasters. 📡 Best Practices in Communication: Learn how to effectively disseminate early warnings to ensure at-risk communities can take timely action. 🤝 International Cooperation: Engage with experts, policymakers, and professionals from around the world to shape resilient disaster management practices. 🧑🏫 Training Opportunity: A special training programme on “New Satellite Resources for Emergency Response” will be offered to 25 participants prior to the conference! Event Details: 📅 Dates: November 19-21, 2024 📍 Location: Beijing, China 🗓️ Training Dates: Prior to the main conference 🔗 Register now: Online registration is open until October 1, 2024. Limited financial support is available for participants from LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS. https://lnkd.in/eUKjpHGs United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) #DisasterRiskReduction #SpaceTechnology #EarlyWarningsForAll #UNSPIDER

🌍 In the face of increasing natural disasters, UNOOSA and The University of Bonn are renewing their partnership to harness space technology for disaster management. 🤝   This five-year collaboration, part of the "Spaceborne Earth Observation Applications for Emergency Response and Disaster Risk Reduction" (SPEAR) project, focuses on assisting African nations in using satellite data to enhance disaster preparedness and response. Together, we’re working to ensure that space-based information is not only accessible but also actionable, providing critical support where it’s needed most. 👉 Check out our press release to learn more about this collaboration and how it’s making a difference on the ground: https://lnkd.in/dnR7cdYE   #DisasterResponse #CapacityBuilding #UNSPIDER UN Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) German Aerospace Center (DLR) Aarti Holla-Maini Photo Credit: UNIS Vienna/Anna Proprentner

🌏 🚨 With rising sea levels and extreme weather events posing existential threats, the Pacific Islands are among the world’s most vulnerable regions. UNOOSA, via our UN Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) program, is dedicated to supporting these nations by leveraging space technology to enhance disaster resilience.   🌐 We’re grateful to showcase these efforts at the 53rd Pacific Islands Leaders Forum in Tonga, alongside United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and other UN entity representatives in the region.   🔭 In Tonga, UN-SPIDER and CEOS (Committee on Earth Observation Satellites) are spearheading the Tonga Preparedness Pilot, a crucial initiative that bolsters disaster resilience through satellite-based Earth observation and early warning systems. This project equips local authorities with essential tools for monitoring volcanic activity, cyclones, and rising sea levels, enabling timely and effective responses.   💡 Regionally, our work in the Pacific includes developing tailored solutions for remote sensing and data analysis, crucial for disaster risk reduction. For instance, UN-SPIDER has facilitated the use of satellite imagery to assess the impact of natural disasters, providing actionable insights that are vital for post-disaster recovery, and saving lives.   🏝️ Through collaborations with regional organizations and local governments, we’ve helped establish geospatial information systems essential for resource management and future risk planning. These efforts directly enhance the Pacific Islands’ capacity to respond to and recover from disasters.   #PacificIslandsForum #SpaceForGood #UNSPIDER #ClimateAction #SustainableDevelopment #Space4Life Photo Credit: UNICEF/Lasse Bak Mejlvang

The 14th session of the United Nations Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM) last week focused on collaborative and action-oriented approaches to strengthen geospatial capacity and leadership. Challenges posed by varying national and regional contexts were raised and the need for cross-sectoral partnerships was emphasized. Some of our key take aways include: 🔹 Research and Education: There was a call for increased collaboration between the networks and countries to bolster geospatial capabilities and support the implementation of the Integrated Geospatial Information Framework (IGIF). 🔹 Geospatial Capacity for Sustainable Development: The need for enhanced geospatial information and products to support the SDGs was underscored, with many countries requiring additional support until 2030, and for the integration of geospatial information and technologies in the post-2030 agenda. 🔹 Disaster and Climate Resilience: The session emphasized the importance of integrating geospatial information and Earth intelligence for climate resilience and disaster risk management. 🔹 DEI: The importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly gender balance, was emphasized and welcomed throughout discussions about the composition of the secretariat, networks, centers, and other representatives. The session also provided an exciting opportunity for our team to meet with several members of the SDGs Today Coalition of Experts (Dr. Mohammed Al-Sayel, Lóránt Czárán, and Aaron Addison) focusing on joint efforts and addressing the session's outcomes to advance these critical areas. Sustainable Development Solutions Network GEOSA- General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information UN Platform for Space-based Information for Disaster Management and Emergency Response (UN-SPIDER) World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC) Maryam Rabiee