told the world</a> that the Sustainable Development Goals needed a global rescue plan. More than halfway to the 2030 target date, many of the goals are significantly off track."}},{"id":"68028434626cc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The hope that came with the aim of the SDGs leading to a future of \"peace and prosperity for people and the planet” has now turned to alarm. “Instead of leaving no one behind, we risk leaving the SDGs behind,” remarked Guterres."}},{"id":"68028434626cd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A significant part of the problem lies in inadequate data, measurement and reporting mechanisms, all of which hinder progress and obscure the true picture of where the world stands in achieving these ambitious goals."}},{"id":"68028434626ce","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"So what’s the solution?"}},{"id":"68028434626cf","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Geospatial information, including Earth observations, can play a crucial role in rescuing the SDGs by providing more accurate, timely and granular data that can inform decision-making and accelerate progress."}},{"id":"68028434626d3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"“The challenges we face are formidable - but not insurmountable,” said Navid Hanif, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, at the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://ggim.un.org/meetings/GGIM-committee/14th-session//">14th session</a> of the UN Committee of Experts on Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM) in August."}},{"id":"68028434626d5","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/Leveraging_geospatial_data_to_rescue_the_SDGs-2.jpg","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"68028434626d6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"UN-GGIM Fourteenth Session, UN HQ, New York NY. Source: David Borges."}},{"id":"68028434626d7","type":"header","data":{"text":"Harnessing data for change","level":2}},{"id":"68028434626d9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Held annually at UN Headquarters in New York, UN-GGIM is the official UN forum for coordination and dialogue around the use of geospatial technologies."}},{"id":"68028434626da","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Both the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) and the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) were represented at UN-GGIM, continuing their collaboration to ensure that all forms of geospatial data, including satellite Earth observations and in-situ observations, are used to inform national reporting on the SDGs."}},{"id":"68028434626db","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"GEO and CEOS also contribute to the Inter-agency and Expert Group on the SDG Indicators (IAEG-SDGs) Working Group on Geospatial Information (WGGI). The Working Group’s capstone work this year has focused on drafting a key paper on how geospatial information can transform and rescue the SDG indicators. The paper will propose the following areas for action:"}},{"id":"68028434626e2","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Strengthening guidance on how SDG indicators can be disaggregated by geographic location.","items":[]},{"content":"Highlighting the need to consider improvements to the SDG indicator metadata.","items":[]},{"content":"Providing better guidance on how geography impacts the indicators.","items":[]},{"content":"The role of new data technologies and global datasets for enabling local and national SDG monitoring","items":[]}]},"tunes":{"documentationLink":[]}},{"id":"68028434626e6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"UN-GGIM <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://ggim.un.org/meetings/GGIM-committee/14th-Session/documents/14th_session_Informal_paper_containing_draft_decisions_Part_I_8Aug2024.pdf/">welcomed the paper’s concept</a> at this year’s UN-GGIM Session, with adoption by the IAEG-SDGs expected in the coming months."}},{"id":"68028434626e7","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"WGGI is also reviewing the metadata of relevant SDG indicators to highlight sources of geospatial information (including Earth observation) that can support the production and use of these indicators."}},{"id":"68028434626e8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"There's still a lot of work to be done to rescue the SDGs, but there is now a window of opportunity to change how some of those indicators are produced and monitored. The innovative use of Earth observations can also play a key role in this transformative process, particularly as we look towards the sustainable development agenda post 2030."}},{"id":"68028434626eb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Read the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"http://un-ggim//">full report from the UN-GGIM 14th session</a>."}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-09-03T12:07:14.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-09-03T12:11:26.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":91,"title":"Help shape the GEO Post 2025 Strategy Implementation Plan","slug":"help-shape-geo-post-2025-strategy-implementation-plan","image":"/storage/news/2024/20240903_post2025_SIP_questionnaire.jpg","published_at":"2024-09-03 13:49:58","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"6802843462b69","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"<a href=https://earthobservations.org/"/storage/documents/Key-Documents/GEO Post 2025 Strategy Full Document.pdf/">GEO’s Post-2025 Strategy</a> marks a new chapter in our collective efforts to achieve Earth Intelligence for All – but we need your help to turn words into action."}},{"id":"6802843462b6d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Around the world, the GEO community has been working with us to define how we bring this strategy to life. We’re sharing our progress and gathering feedback <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://earthobservations.org/news/dates-your-diary-upcoming-regional-geo-events/">at regional GEO events</a> and the upcoming GEO Symposium and ODOK Workshop."}},{"id":"6802843462b6f","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"It’s vital that everyone gets a chance to contribute."}},{"id":"6802843462b72","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"We invite the GEO community to <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://geosec.limequery.com/765965/">complete this anonymous survey</a> and have your say on key aspects of the strategy. It should take no more than 15 minutes."}},{"id":"6802843462b73","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Your feedback will help us craft a draft Post-2025 Strategy Implementation Plan that will be presented to our Executive Committee in November."}},{"id":"6802843462b74","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Together, we can achieve Earth Intelligence for All."}},{"id":"6802843462b90","type":"button","data":{"buttons":[{"text":"Take the survey","url":"https://geosec.limequery.com/765965"}]}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-09-03T15:53:55.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-09-03T16:44:44.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":89,"title":"Record-breaking heat intensifies global drought conditions","slug":"record-breaking-heat-intensifies-global-drought-conditions","image":"/storage/news/2024/Record-breaking_heat_intensifies_global_drought_conditions.jpg","published_at":"2024-09-03 06:32:21","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"6802843461ffa","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Continued dry conditions in key regions around the world were further exacerbated by record-breaking heat in July, according to the latest Global Drought Information System (GDIS) report."}},{"id":"6802843461fff","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Compiled by the <strong>US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), with media reports provided by the National Drought Mitigation Center</strong>, the latest data underscores the escalating need for action to protect ecosystems, agriculture and vulnerable populations."}},{"id":"6802843462000","type":"header","data":{"text":"Africa","level":2}},{"id":"6802843462005","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Africa continued to endure relentless heat, with July 2024 being the hottest July on record for the continent. This led to worsening drought conditions. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://hydrology.soton.ac.uk/apps/afdm//">African Flood and Drought Monitor</a> reported that 30% of the continent was in drought at the end of July, an increase from the previous month."}},{"id":"6802843462008","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Agriculture across Africa is under severe stress, with satellite data showing low soil moisture and groundwater, particularly in the Maghreb and central to southern regions. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://fews.net//">Famine Early Warning System Network (FEWSNet)</a> highlighted ongoing food insecurity, especially in regions like Zimbabwe, where half the harvest has been destroyed by historic drought, putting 7.6 million people at risk of acute hunger."}},{"id":"6802843462009","type":"header","data":{"text":"Europe","level":2}},{"id":"680284346200d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Europe experienced a warmer-than-normal July. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://drought.emergency.copernicus.eu//">European Combined Drought Indicator</a> issued drought warnings across much of eastern Europe, the Mediterranean and parts of northern Europe."}},{"id":"6802843462010","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/Record-breaking_heat_intensifies_global_drought_conditions-2.jpg","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"6802843462013","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Image source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://drought.emergency.copernicus.eu//">Copernicus Drought Observatories</a>"}},{"id":"6802843462016","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Anomalous warmth over extended periods has exacerbated drought conditions, with <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI)</a> maps showing more intense and widespread drought, particularly in the Mediterranean. Agricultural sectors across Europe are facing unprecedented challenges due to the combined effects of high temperatures and prolonged drought."}},{"id":"6802843462017","type":"header","data":{"text":"Asia","level":2}},{"id":"680284346201b","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"July brought varied conditions across Asia, with much of the continent experiencing warmer-than-normal temperatures. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://indiadroughtmonitor.in//">India Drought Monitor</a> indicated that 23.1% of India was in drought at the end of July, consistent with the previous month."}},{"id":"6802843462020","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Satellite observations revealed low soil moisture and groundwater across much of Southwest and Southeast Asia, northern India, China and Russia. The excessive warmth has significantly increased evapotranspiration, worsening drought conditions as shown by <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">Evaporative Demand Drought Index (EDDI)</a> and <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">Evaporative Stress Index (ESI) maps</a>."}},{"id":"6802843462021","type":"header","data":{"text":"Australia and New Zealand","level":2}},{"id":"6802843462024","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Australia also faced drier-than-normal conditions across western, northern, and southeastern regions, including Tasmania. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/drought//">Australian Bureau of Meteorology</a> reported low streamflows and water storage levels, particularly in Tasmania and western and eastern Australia."}},{"id":"6802843462025","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Satellite data indicated dry soils and low groundwater across southern to southwestern Australia and northern New Zealand. Vegetative health was poor in these areas, reflecting the ongoing drought stress."}},{"id":"6802843462026","type":"header","data":{"text":"South America","level":2}},{"id":"680284346202c","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"July 2024 marked the driest July on record for South America based on the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">1940-2024 ECMWF ERA5 Reanalysis dataset</a>. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://sissa.crc-sas.org/monitoreo/estado-actual-de-la-sequia//">Southern South America Drought Information System (SISSA)</a> reported that 69.1% of Chile and Argentina were in drought or abnormally dry at the end of July, a significant increase from the previous month."}},{"id":"680284346202e","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/Record-breaking_heat_intensifies_global_drought_conditions-3.jpg","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"6802843462031","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Image source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">Climate Reanalyzer</a>"}},{"id":"6802843462035","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.gov.br/cemaden/pt-br/assuntos/monitoramento/monitoramento-de-seca-para-o-brasil/">National Institute for Space Research (Inpe)</a> noted a surge in fire hotspots in the Amazon, the most for any July since 2005, signaling an impending intense fire season."}},{"id":"6802843462036","type":"header","data":{"text":"North America and Central America","level":2}},{"id":"6802843462039","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"July 2024 was characterized by drier-than-normal conditions across northwestern Mexico, the western and central United States, and much of Canada. The month was the second warmest July on record for <strong>North America</strong>."}},{"id":"680284346203c","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Satellite data showed extensive areas of low groundwater and dry soils across western to central Canada, parts of the US, and northern Mexico. The combination of low precipitation and high temperatures has led to poor vegetative health, as seen in <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">Vegetative Health Index (VHI)</a> analyses."}},{"id":"6802843462045","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This information is based on global drought indicators available at the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://gdis-noaa.hub.arcgis.com/pages/drought-monitoring/">Global Drought Information System (GDIS) website</a>, and media reports summarized by the US National Drought Mitigation Center. A more detailed report is available from the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/monthly-report/global-drought/202407/">GDIS Global Drought Narrative</a>."}},{"id":"6802843462049","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Header image source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://hydrology.soton.ac.uk/apps/afdm//">Africa Flood and Drought Monitor</a>"}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-09-03T08:52:23.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-09-03T21:46:32.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":88,"title":"Digital Earth Africa unveils major advancement in the observation of Africa’s waterbodies","slug":"digital-earth-africa-unveils-major-advancement-observation-africas-waterbodies","image":"/storage/news/2024/202407_waterbodies_monitoring_service.png","published_at":"2024-07-31 13:48:58","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"68028434617b4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"<a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.digitalearthafrica.org//">Digital Earth Africa</a> has announced the launch of its innovative <strong>Waterbodies Monitoring Service</strong>."}},{"id":"68028434617b6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Unique among satellite-based global surface water datasets, the service provides previously unseen levels of access to data that can be used to assess and monitor surface water across the entire African continent."}},{"id":"68028434617ce","type":"embed","data":{"embed":"https://www.youtube.com/embed/iy3KrMTHJVU?si=jzue52svSSPOV4bp","caption":null,"height":320,"width":580,"source":"https://www.youtube.com/embed/iy3KrMTHJVU?si=jzue52svSSPOV4bp","service":"youtube"}},{"id":"68028434617d0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"“The service has been developed to support Africa’s governments, policymakers and key private sector actors in undertaking insightful planning, adopting critical risk mitigation strategies, and proactively managing Africa’s settlements, cities, communities, and livelihood activities which are dependent on, or adjacent to waterbodies,” said Dr Lisa-Maria Rebelo, Digital Earth Africa lead scientist."}},{"id":"68028434617d2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Waterbodies Monitoring Service tracks data from more than 700,000 unique water bodies across Africa, incorporating over forty years of satellite observations."}},{"id":"68028434617d3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Updated weekly, the service maps changes in the surface area of waterbodies, including lakes, ponds, man-made reservoirs, wetlands and segments of river systems."}},{"id":"68028434617d4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"While other datasets provide important information on the presence or absence of surface water, Waterbodies Monitoring Service takes this a step further by providing the actual surface extent, along with the wet surface area, as a time series for each individual waterbody."}},{"id":"68028434617d5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Application of the service can help decision-makers with detailed understanding of surface water availability, dry season access to water, changes in water body sizes over time and an understanding of potential flood risks."}},{"id":"68028434617d6","type":"header","data":{"text":"Identifying user needs","level":2}},{"id":"68028434617d8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Digital Earth Africa science team interrogated what optimal waterbodies datasets might look like in terms of addressing user-defined needs, and delivering the most impact."}},{"id":"68028434617d9","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The outcome is a robust service, co-designed with Digital Earth Africa users, that provides highly detailed and far-reaching information on the continent’s waterbodies."}},{"id":"68028434617da","type":"header","data":{"text":"API access for all","level":2}},{"id":"68028434617e2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The <strong>Waterbodies Monitoring Service</strong> can be accessed via an API, through the Digital Earth Africa <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://maps.digitalearth.africa/#share=s-gPyGXT9sd2dWOY9cdyvPmJuQQgJ\">interactive maps platform</a> and the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://sandbox.digitalearth.africa/hub/login/">sandbox analytical environment</a>."}},{"id":"68028434617e3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The API helps service providers and product developers directly integrate the data into their work, allowing them to create customised queries around water body extents, historical wet surface area and changes related to these."}},{"id":"68028434617e4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A user could, for example, request data on all waterbodies in a particular area, as well as the wet surface area time series for each of those waterbodies. From this, powerful and highly customised summaries can be created to allow the close monitoring of an individual waterbody, or to understand trends and the latest status of a collection of waterbodies."}},{"id":"68028434617e5","type":"header","data":{"text":"Get involved","level":2}},{"id":"68028434617ea","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Over the next few months, the Digital Earth Africa team will be seeking feedback from users engaged in real-world applications of the Waterbodies Monitoring Service.<br>Click <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.digitalearthafrica.org/node/601/">here to obtain an overview of Digital Earth Africa’s Waterbodies Monitoring Service."}},{"id":"68028434617ed","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"To find out more information about the Digital Earth Africa Waterbodies Monitoring Service, please contact <a href=https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/\"mailto:communications@digitalearthafrica.org\">communications@digitalearthafrica.org"}},{"id":"68028434617ee","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Digital Earth Africa, the world’s largest operator of the Open Data Cube (ODC) infrastructure, is a free platform for accessing satellite imagery specific to the African continent, which is also hosted on the continent. By packaging Earth observation data into accessible and free data sets, African governments, industry players, and decision-makers, can track changes across the continent in unprecedented detail."}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-08-01T15:50:35.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-08-01T15:55:48.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":87,"title":"Dates for your diary: upcoming regional GEO events","slug":"dates-your-diary-upcoming-regional-geo-events","image":"/storage/news/2024/Events_workshops_symposiums_HEADER _1600x900_1.png","published_at":"2024-07-29 16:02:18","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"6802843460ddb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://earthobservations.org/events/geo-symposium-and-odok-workshop/">GEO Symposium and ODOK Workshop</a> isn’t the only key GEO event coming up this year. You can also register now to take part in key regional GEO events, covering Africa, the Americas, Asia-Oceania and Europe."}},{"id":"6802843460ddf","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Can’t attend in person? <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://twitter.com/GEOSEC2025/">Follow us on Twitter</a> for the latest GEO news and updates from around the world."}},{"id":"6802843460e75","type":"highlightsList","data":{"withIcon":false,"basic":true,"simple":false,"extended":false,"tiny":false,"simpleWithIcon":false,"small":false,"items":[{"title":"AfriGEO Symposium","description":"<div class=\"description\">📅 12-15 August</div><div class=\"description\">📍 Nairobi, Kenya</div><div class=\"description\">🔗️ <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://8afrigeosymposium2024.rcmrd.org//">Symposium website</a> / <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://8afrigeosymposium2024.rcmrd.org/register/">Registration page</a></div><div class=\"description\">In the face of challenges like urbanisation, increased weather and climate unpredictability, and population growth, how do we harness the power of Earth intelligence to support decisions in various sectors across Africa?</div><div class=\"description\">Improved information access, rich indigenous knowledge and advancements in technology are among the opportunities for progress that will be discussed at this year’s AfriGEO symposium. Experts will have a chance to network, learn and be a part of insightful discussions on Earth intelligence for Africa.</div><div class=\"description\">The symposium will feature key sessions on topics like Disaster Risk Reduction, data and infrastructure, land and forest management, and health.</div>"},{"title":"AmeriGEO Week 2024","description":"<div class=\"description\">📅 26-30 August</div><div class=\"description\">📍 Quito, Ecuador</div><div class=\"description\">🔗 <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://2024amerigeoweek.amerigeo.org//">AmeriGEO Week 2024 website</a> / <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/0f76b584f9a44b2fa99818a18efa0925/">Registration website</a></div><div class=\"description\">The theme for this year's AmeriGEO Week is <strong>Adapting for a resilient future with Earth Intelligence</strong>.</div><div class=\"description\">The event will bring together the inter-American Earth observation community to discuss the role Earth observations play in natural disaster prediction, resilience and emergency response.</div><div class=\"description\">AmeriGEO Week 2024 will be an opportunity to engage with participants from GEO member countries in the Americas and with Ecuadorian institutions and groups, including the national GEO and local indigenous communities.</div>"},{"title":"16th AOGEO Symposium","description":"<div class=\"description\">📅 3-5 September</div><div class=\"description\">📍 Tokyo, Japan</div><div class=\"description\">🔗 <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://aogeo16th.com//">Symposium website</a> / <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://aogeo16th.com/form1.html/">Registration link</a></div><div class=\"description\">The 16th AOGEO Symposium will focus on how the Asia-Oceania region can harness Earth Intelligence for the benefit of society while ensuring global equity. An AOGEO Statement will be adopted at this symposium as a contribution to the Post-2025 GEO Implementation Plan.</div>"},{"title":"EuroGEO Workshop 2024","description":"<div class=\"description\">📅 8-10 October</div><div class=\"description\">📍 Krakow, Poland</div><div class=\"description\">🔗 <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://eurogeosec.eu/egw2024//">Workshop website</a> / <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/EuroGEO-Workshop-2024/">Registration link</a></div><div class=\"description\">Since EuroGEO’s inception, the European landscape has changed significantly.</div><div class=\"description\">Firstly, the implementation of the EU Space Programme has provided the necessary infrastructure and data that EuroGEO utilises to tackle global and regional challenges through <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://earthobservations.org/organization/work-programme/">GEO programme activities</a>.</div><div class=\"description\">And secondly, the adoption of the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"/storage/documents/Key-Documents/GEO Post 2025 Strategy Full Document.pdf/">GEO Post 2025 Strategy (PDF)</a> shifts the focus from “Earth observation” to “Earth Intelligence”, from services to equity, to bridge the global information gaps.</div><div class=\"description\">At this critical juncture, this year’s EuroGEO workshop, will mobilise the Earth observation community to <strong>Coordinate, Combine, Cooperate</strong>.</div>"}]},"tunes":{"documentationLink":[]}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-07-29T18:02:55.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-09-02T18:22:58.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":86,"title":"Rising temperatures and ongoing drought threaten global agriculture","slug":"rising-temperatures-and-ongoing-drought-threaten-global-agriculture","image":"/storage/news/2024/rising-temperatures-and-ongoing-drought-threaten-global-agriculture.png","published_at":"2024-07-29 06:00:00","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"680284346092a","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Global Drought scenario in June 2024 points to the critical need for coordinated action to mitigate the impact of drought on agriculture, especially in the Americas, Africa, eastern Europe, and parts of Asia."}},{"id":"6802843460934","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"June 2024 was characterised by extreme heat, setting records for several continents based on <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/climate-at-a-glance/global/rankings/">NOAA/NCEI, <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">ECMWF ERA5,</a>, and <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://data.giss.nasa.gov/gistemp//">NASA data. The relentless heat exacerbated drought conditions by increasing evapotranspiration, as shown by the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI)."}},{"id":"6802843460936","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Low soil moisture and groundwater levels continue to affect large agricultural areas worldwide. Satellite observations revealed stressed vegetation on most continents, indicating severe impacts on crop yields and food security."}},{"id":"6802843460937","type":"header","data":{"text":"Africa","level":2}},{"id":"680284346093d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Southern Africa experienced a relatively wet June, a respite from months of dryness. Conversely, Eastern Africa had its eighth driest June, and continent-wide, Africa had the tenth driest June on record, based on ECMWF ERA5 data. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://cropmonitor.org//">GEOGLAM Crop Monitor</a> reported significant agricultural threats in parts of Africa, contributing to food insecurity highlighted by the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://fews.net//">Famine Early Warning System Network (FEWSNet)</a>."}},{"id":"680284346093e","type":"header","data":{"text":"Europe","level":2}},{"id":"6802843460940","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Europe was wetter than normal, except in the Mediterranean Basin, which had the 14th driest June on record. Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) maps (which compare current month precipitation to historical precipitation using a standardized statistical algorithm) indicated persistent dryness in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Mediterranean, exacerbating agricultural and water resource challenges."}},{"id":"6802843460941","type":"header","data":{"text":"Asia","level":2}},{"id":"6802843460944","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Asia saw a mix of precipitation anomalies. While some regions were wetter, large areas, particularly in Russia, Mongolia, India, and Southeast Asia, remained dry. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://indiadroughtmonitor.in//">India Drought Monitor</a> reported that 23.2% of India was in drought at the end of June, a slight improvement from the previous month."}},{"id":"6802843460947","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/rising-temperatures-and-ongoing-drought-threaten-global-agriculture-Asia.jpg","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"680284346094c","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"<em>Image source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://indiadroughtmonitor.in//">India Drought Monitor</a></em>"}},{"id":"680284346094d","type":"header","data":{"text":"Australia and New Zealand","level":2}},{"id":"6802843460950","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Western Australia received beneficial rains, yet northern, eastern, and southwestern regions remained dry. SPI maps indicated expanding dryness in these areas, with low streamflows and water storage levels noted by the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/drought//">Australian Bureau of Meteorology</a>."}},{"id":"6802843460952","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/rising-temperatures-and-ongoing-drought-threaten-global-agriculture-Australia-and-New-Zealand.jpg","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"6802843460958","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"<em>Image source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/drought//">Australian Bureau of Meteorology</a></em>"}},{"id":"6802843460959","type":"header","data":{"text":"South America","level":2}},{"id":"680284346095d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"South America experienced widespread dryness, with Brazil and neighboring countries facing severe drought conditions. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://sissa.crc-sas.org/monitoreo/estado-actual-de-la-sequia//">Southern South America Drought Information System (SISSA)</a> indicated increasing drought severity, affecting agriculture and water resources."}},{"id":"680284346095e","type":"header","data":{"text":"North America and Central America","level":2}},{"id":"6802843460961","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"June 2024 presented a mixed precipitation pattern across North America. The SPI showed drier than normal conditions in parts of Mexico, Canada, and the United States, while other areas experienced wetter conditions. Central America benefited from heavy precipitation, marking the wettest June in the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://climatereanalyzer.org/research_tools/monthly_tseries//">1940-2024 ECMWF ERA5 Reanalysis dataset</a>."}},{"id":"6802843460967","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This information is based on global drought indicators available at the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://gdis-noaa.hub.arcgis.com/pages/drought-monitoring/">Global Drought Information System (GDIS) website</a>, and media reports summarized by the US National Drought Mitigation Center. A more detailed report is available from the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/monthly-report/global-drought//">GDIS Global Drought Narrative</a>."}},{"id":"680284346096b","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"<em>Header image source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://uofmd.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/61a5af3168264ba68755e49a73cbf851/">GEOGLAM Crop Monitor</a></em>"}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-07-29T09:40:25.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-07-29T09:43:02.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":85,"title":"Indigenous Earth observations can advance water quality monitoring","slug":"indigenous-earth-observations-can-advance-water-quality-monitoring","image":"/storage/news/2024/Indigenous_Earth_observations_can_advance_water_quality_monitoring.jpg","published_at":"2024-07-09 14:00:00","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"680284346027d","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Indigenous Peoples were among the first to notice and understand complex changes in the environment around them. Today, their knowledge can provide valuable insights for addressing challenges like changes in Earth’s water systems."}},{"id":"680284346027f","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This information helps us understand the water cycle, water quality, water courses, and the impacts of climate change, such as floods and droughts."}},{"id":"6802843460280","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"What opportunities exist to better incorporate Indigenous Knowledge into Earth Observations, and what are the main challenges?"}},{"id":"6802843460281","type":"header","data":{"text":"The power of Indigenous Earth observations","level":2}},{"id":"6802843460283","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In this webinar, indigenous speakers shared examples of Indigenous Earth observations that can be used for water quality monitoring."}},{"id":"680284346029d","type":"embed","data":{"embed":"https://www.youtube.com/embed/hEKppI8bvLM?si=gJIprUPMlqFQMBl-","caption":null,"height":320,"width":580,"source":"https://www.youtube.com/embed/hEKppI8bvLM?si=gJIprUPMlqFQMBl-","service":"youtube"}},{"id":"680284346029e","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Speakers from various Indigenous communities shared their experiences, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional knowledge into scientific practices."}},{"id":"68028434602a4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Yolanda López-Maldonado, co-author of a <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/water/articles/10.3389/frwa.2024.1363187/full/">recently published paper on this topic</a>, will shared recommendations and best practices for anyone looking to engage and share water quality information with Indigenous communities."}},{"id":"68028434602a5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The paper examines how Indigenous Peoples report precise and accurate observations of changes in various Earth systems, particularly the hydrological cycle."}},{"id":"68028434602a6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"“We realized that there are gaps in data for water quality monitoring at local scales. Indigenous peoples report precise and accurate observations of changes in ecosystems, which can significantly enhance global understanding of the hydrological cycle,” she said."}},{"id":"68028434602a7","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"“Indigenous Peoples are very good at observing natural phenomena on a wider scale. This information can significantly enhance global outreach and engagement efforts, hiding in the understanding of hydrological cycle components. It's essential to enable Indigenous Peoples to contribute their scientific knowledge in the use of Earth observations.”"}},{"id":"68028434602a8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Indigenous knowledge can significantly improve global understanding of water systems and climate change impacts. Supporting Indigenous Peoples to contribute to Earth observations is crucial for the protection of other vital components of the water cycle."}},{"id":"68028434602a9","type":"header","data":{"text":"Speakers","level":3}},{"id":"68028434602ba","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"<strong>James Rattling Leaf</strong>, Sr, GEO Indigenous Alliance, North America (moderator)","items":[]},{"content":"<strong>Dr Dawn Martin-Hill</strong>, Professor, McMaster University, Ontario, Canada","items":[]},{"content":"<strong>Dr Elisabeth Veronika Wambrauw</strong>, Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Universitas Cenderawasih, Indonesia","items":[]},{"content":"<strong>Professor Bradley Moggridge</strong>, Indigenous Leadership & Engagement, University of Technology Sydney, Australia","items":[]},{"content":"<strong>Samwel Nangiria</strong>, Pan African Living Cultures Alliance, Tanzania, Africa","items":[]},{"content":"<strong>Dr Myrle Ballard</strong>, Indigenous Scholar and Associate Professor, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada","items":[]},{"content":"<strong>Yolanda López-Maldonado</strong>, Indigenous Earth Systems Scientist","items":[]}]},"tunes":{"documentationLink":[]}},{"id":"68028434602c4","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This event was organised by the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://x.com/geoindigenous?lang=en\%22>GEO Indigenous Alliance</a> and <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.geoaquawatch.org//">GEO AquaWatch</a>, with support from CSIRO’s AquaWatch Australia, <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://iaglr.org//">International Association for Great Lakes Research</a> and the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.unep.org/explore-topics/water/what-we-do/improving-and-assessing-world-water-quality-partnership-effort/">World Water Quality Alliance</a>. It is also part of a webinar series by the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Subgroup of the GEO Programme Board."}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-07-09T15:27:33.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-08-08T15:17:40.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]},{"id":84,"title":"May 2024 global drought report highlights urgent need for action to protect ecosystems, agriculture and livelihoods","slug":"may-2024-global-drought-report-highlights-urgent-need-action-protect-ecosystems-agriculture-and-livelihoods","image":"/storage/news/2024/May-2024-global-drought-report-highlights.png","published_at":"2024-07-08 09:25:46","content":{"time":1744995380000,"blocks":[{"id":"680284345f9ac","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The global drought scenario in May 2024 underscores the urgent need for comprehensive monitoring and mitigation efforts to address the widespread and multifaceted impacts of drought conditions on ecosystems, agriculture and human livelihoods."}},{"id":"680284345f9ae","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"In May 2024, wet conditions brought limited relief to some drought-hit areas, especially in Canada, Southwest Asia and southern parts of Central America, but the month was dry in parts of Africa, Australia, South America, northern and eastern Europe, and South Asia. The precipitation that fell was not enough to make up for months, even years, of deficient precipitation."}},{"id":"680284345f9b0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The unusually hot temperatures in May increased evapotranspiration (the sum of all processes by which water moves from the land surface to the atmosphere via evaporation and transpiration), which exacerbated drought conditions."}},{"id":"680284345f9b1","type":"header","data":{"text":"The impact of drought felt around the world","level":2}},{"id":"680284345f9b8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Low soil moisture and groundwater levels continue to plague significant agricultural areas, especially in the Americas, Africa, eastern Europe and parts of Asia. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://cropmonitor.org//">GEOGLAM Crop Monitor</a> identified critical agricultural threats in these regions. <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://fews.net//">FEWSNet highlighted ongoing food insecurity in Central and South America, Southwest Asia, and much of Africa."}},{"id":"680284345f9bc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Meanwhile, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported severe food and water shortages in Zimbabwe, affecting half the population. Project Hope noted similar crises in Zambia, while the World Meteorological Organization documented rising hunger and disease in Latin America due to extreme weather. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/monthly-report/global-drought/202405/">United Nations warned</a> of significant impacts on southern Africa's food production."}},{"id":"680284345f9bd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A study in Nature Communications revealed that Brazil's Cerrado is experiencing its worst drought in 700 years, and a new study warned of critical stress in the Amazon rainforest. However, the Panama Canal showed signs of recovery from prolonged drought impacts, though full capacity is not expected until early 2025."}},{"id":"680284345f9be","type":"header","data":{"text":"Africa","level":3}},{"id":"680284345f9c0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Southern Africa faced the driest May and second driest January-May period on record, while the entire continent experienced its fourth driest May. Persistent dryness affected the Maghreb region and parts of southern Africa."}},{"id":"680284345f9c3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Satellite observations revealed stressed vegetation across the continent, with particularly low soil moisture and groundwater levels in the Maghreb and central to southern Africa. The African Flood and Drought Monitor reported that <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://hydrology.soton.ac.uk/apps/afdm//">28% of Africa</a> was in drought by the end of May, affecting 14 countries."}},{"id":"680284345f9c4","type":"header","data":{"text":"Europe","level":3}},{"id":"680284345f9c6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Much of Europe experienced warmer than normal temperatures in May, with dry conditions across eastern Europe, Scandinavia and the Iberian Peninsula. Drought warnings were issued for eastern and northern Europe, with severe drought in the southeastern Mediterranean basin. The warm temperatures exacerbated evaporation rates, intensifying drought conditions. Long-term data indicated persistent dryness from the Mediterranean to north-central Europe, with the last year being the warmest on record for the continent."}},{"id":"680284345f9c8","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/May-2024-global-drought-report-highlights-2.png","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"680284345f9cc","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://drought.emergency.copernicus.eu//">European Combined Drought Indicator</a>"}},{"id":"680284345f9cd","type":"header","data":{"text":"Asia","level":3}},{"id":"680284345f9ce","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"May saw dry conditions in western Russia, Siberia, eastern China, and northern India and Pakistan, while Southwest Asia was wetter than normal. Over longer time scales, dryness intensified and expanded in Southwest Asia and northern India."}},{"id":"680284345f9d3","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Asia's temperatures have been unusually warm, ranking second warmest for recent periods. The <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://indiadroughtmonitor.in//">India Drought Monitor</a> indicated drought in 24.1% of the nation by the end of May. The drought also affected parts of Micronesia and the Polynesian islands, as shown in the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://shiny.niwa.co.nz/icu-app//">NIWA Island Climate Update</a>."}},{"id":"680284345f9d5","type":"image","data":{"url":"/storage/news/2024/May-2024-global-drought-report-highlights-3.png","caption":null,"vertical":false,"stretched":false,"small":false}},{"id":"680284345f9d8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Source: <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://indiadroughtmonitor.in//">India Drought Monitor</a>"}},{"id":"680284345f9d9","type":"header","data":{"text":"Australia and Oceania","level":3}},{"id":"680284345f9dd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Tasmania, northeast and southern Australia, and western Australia, along with much of New Zealand, were drier than normal in May. Persistent dryness was observed in these regions over various time scales. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology reported low streamflows and water storage levels in parts of Australia, with significant soil moisture deficits. New Zealand's central regions were also in drought by the end of May, according to the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://niwa.co.nz/climate/information-and-resources/drought-monitor/">New Zealand Drought Monitor</a>."}},{"id":"680284345f9de","type":"header","data":{"text":"South America","level":3}},{"id":"680284345f9e0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"May brought significant dryness to Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and parts of Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela. Despite some beneficial April rains, long-term dryness persisted across much of the continent. South America's temperatures have been persistently warm, with recent periods ranking as the warmest on record."}},{"id":"680284345f9e5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This warmth increased evapotranspiration, worsening drought conditions. Satellite data showed extensive areas of dry soil and low groundwater, particularly in Brazil and Argentina. Drought conditions were confirmed by multiple sources including the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://monitordesecas.ana.gov.br/mapa/">Brazilian Drought Monitor</a> and the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://sissa.crc-sas.org/monitoreo/indices-de-sequia//">Southern South America Drought Information System</a>."}},{"id":"680284345f9e6","type":"header","data":{"text":"North America","level":3}},{"id":"680284345f9e8","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Drier than normal conditions were reported in Mexico, southern Florida, parts of the US, and Canada, as well as the northern half of Central America and parts of the Caribbean. Warmer than normal temperatures dominated much of the last year."}},{"id":"680284345f9eb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The North American Drought Monitor highlighted drought in the northern Rockies, southern Florida, central and southern Plains, and much of Mexico. By the end of May, drought affected 19% of North America's area and 25.8% of its population, as detailed in the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/nadm/maps/">North American Drought Monitor</a>."}},{"id":"680284345f9f1","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"This information is based on global drought indicators available at the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://gdis-noaa.hub.arcgis.com/pages/drought-monitoring/">Global Drought Information System (GDIS) website</a>, and media reports summarized by the US National Drought Mitigation Center. A more detailed report is available from the <a href=https://earthobservations.org/"https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/monthly-report/global-drought//">GDIS Global Drought Narrative</a>."}}],"version":"2.29.1"},"created_at":"2024-07-08T11:34:41.000000Z","updated_at":"2024-07-08T18:31:52.000000Z","is_hidden":false,"image_caption":null,"tags":[]}],"first_page_url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=1","from":49,"last_page":18,"last_page_url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=18","links":[{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=6","label":"« Previous","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=1","label":"1","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=2","label":"2","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=3","label":"3","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=4","label":"4","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=5","label":"5","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=6","label":"6","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=7","label":"7","active":true},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=8","label":"8","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=9","label":"9","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=10","label":"10","active":false},{"url":null,"label":"...","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=17","label":"17","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=18","label":"18","active":false},{"url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=8","label":"Next »","active":false}],"next_page_url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=8","path":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news","per_page":8,"prev_page_url":"https://earthobservations.org/index.php/about-us/news?page=6","to":56,"total":142},"filters":{"years":["2025","2024","2023","2022","2021","2020","2019"],"tags":[{"id":3,"name":"Impact","pivot":{"taggable_type":"App\\Models\\Post","taggable_id":4,"tag_id":3}},{"id":4,"name":"Youth","pivot":{"taggable_type":"App\\Models\\Post","taggable_id":17,"tag_id":4}},{"id":2,"name":"Blog","pivot":{"taggable_type":"App\\Models\\Post","taggable_id":130,"tag_id":2}},{"id":1,"name":"News","pivot":{"taggable_type":"App\\Models\\Post","taggable_id":132,"tag_id":1}}]},"checked":{"year":null,"tag":null}},"url":"/index.php/about-us/news?page=7","version":"d29a61d83d8f3885d71ed43c36a5789b","encryptHistory":false,"clearHistory":false}">
