Synopsis
The “Earth Observation Handbook 2023” is a comprehensive document focused on the role of Earth Observation (EO) satellite data in understanding and addressing climate change, specifically in the context of the Paris Agreement and the Global Stocktake (GST) of 2023. The handbook is structured into two main parts:
Part I: Space Data for the Global Stocktake
- The Paris Agreement in Plain Language: It provides an overview of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing its goals to limit global warming and the need for all nations to undertake efforts to combat climate change. The handbook underlines the critical role of the Global Stocktake in evaluating progress towards these goals and the importance of data in this process.
- The Role of Satellite Earth Observations for the Paris Agreement & Global Stocktake: This section discusses how EO data contributes to understanding and monitoring various aspects of climate change and the efficacy of measures to counter it. This includes tracking greenhouse gas emissions, assessing climate change impacts, and supporting climate finance decisions.
- Measuring Emissions and Adapting to Climate Change Impacts: Here, the handbook delves into specific methodologies and technologies for measuring emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change, highlighting the crucial role of satellite data.
- Future Capabilities & Challenges: This section looks ahead at the evolving capabilities of EO technology and the ongoing and future challenges in its application for climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Part II: Case Studies to Inform and Inspire
- SilvaCarbon Support to National Forest Monitoring Systems: Discusses the SilvaCarbon program’s role in enhancing national forest monitoring through EO data.
- OpenForis and SEPAL: Focuses on tools that facilitate access to EO data for advanced analysis.
- Pilot National Inventories for Greenhouse Gases: Examines pilot projects in developing national greenhouse gas inventories using EO data.
- National Adaptation Plans and GEOGLAM Crop Monitor: Covers the use of EO data in national adaptation strategies and agricultural decision-making.
- International Methane Emissions Observatory and Global Carbon Project: Discusses monitoring methane emissions and global/regional GHG budgets using EO data.
- Copernicus Greenhouse Gas Emissions Monitoring Capacity: Highlights the capabilities of the Copernicus program in monitoring GHG emissions.
The handbook emphasizes the integral role of satellite-based EO data in the fight against climate change, offering a comprehensive view of how such data can be utilized in various domains related to climate change. It is intended for stakeholders in the climate policy process, including national agencies, policy makers, NGOs, and scientists, to facilitate a deeper understanding of the role of satellite EO data and its effective application for climate-related objectives. The document provides detailed insights, tools, and resources to encourage the usage of satellite data in understanding and mitigating climate change impacts, particularly in the context of the Paris Agreement and the Global Stocktake.
The handbook illustrates the significance of EO data in:
- Monitoring and Measuring Climate Variables: EO satellites provide crucial data on key climate variables, which are essential for understanding and responding to climate change. This includes data on greenhouse gas emissions, land cover changes, ocean conditions, and atmospheric variables.
- Informing Climate Policies and Actions: The data obtained from EO satellites informs global climate policies, assists in tracking progress towards the objectives of the Paris Agreement, and supports the decision-making process for climate actions.
- Supporting National and Global Climate Initiatives: Through various case studies and examples, the handbook demonstrates how EO data supports national climate monitoring systems, adaptation plans, and global initiatives like the International Methane Emissions Observatory.
- Future Perspectives: The handbook also discusses the future capabilities of EO technologies and the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need for continuous advancement and collaboration among countries and organizations in the realm of Earth observation.
Overall, the “Earth Observation Handbook 2023” serves as a valuable resource for understanding the critical role of satellite data in climate monitoring and action, and in supporting the global community’s efforts to address climate change in alignment with the Paris Agreement’s goals.
