LAUNCH OF THE KNOWLEDGE CENTRE ON EARTH OBSERVATION
What has happened?
On April 20, 2021, the European Commission (EC) launched the Knowledge Centre on Earth Observation (KCEO).
Why this is important?
What gets measured gets done: Earth observation (EO) data has become increasingly valuable to public and private efforts that improve our planet and people and for achieving EU priorities and policies such as:
- the green deal and the climate and digital transitions
- conservation of nature, biodiversity and of the cultural heritage
- civil protection, disaster management, including pandemia and forest fires
- sustainable and smart agriculture
- ocean and costal management and maritime surveillance
- energy and health.
The KCEO will also help increasing the coherence and effectiveness of EU policies and actions (17 EC directorate generals may benefit as well as several agencies such as the SatCen, Frontex and the European Space Agency), better coordinate their impact in other areas and help achieving international efforts and commitments such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What is in it for you?
- The KCEO will provide open and transparent access to quality and trusted EO data, including certain data such as on land protection that are currently not generally available to the public.
- It will help to prioritize investments in next-generation EO technologies and the related support provided by the Horizon Europe and the Copernicus programs.
- The KCEO will provide a forum for dialogue with stakeholders and the general public and may be contacted for seeking guidance.
Next steps
- The KCEO will continue the policy discussions with stakeholders to refine its action plans and priorities, organise kick-off meetings and a conference.
- The EU will organize a summit with Africa in June 2021 on Earth Observation.