Group on Earth Observations (GEO)

The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) coordinates international efforts to build a Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS). It links existing and planned Earth observation systems and supports the development of new ones in cases of perceived gaps in the supply of environment-related information. It aims to construct a global public infrastructure for Earth observations consisting in a flexible and distributed network of systems and content providers. Its mission is to connect the demand for sound and timely environmental information with the supply of data and information about the Earth. Advocacy for broad, open data policies helps ensure that the data collected through national, regional and global observing systems is both made available and applied to decision-making for global priorities including The Sustainable Development Goals, The Paris Agreement on climate change, The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and Aichi Targets of The Convention on Biodiversity.

GEO is a unique global network connecting government institutions, academic and research institutions, data providers, businesses, engineers, scientists and experts to create innovative solutions to global challenges at a time of exponential data growth, human development and climate change that transcend national and disciplinary boundaries. The unprecedented global collaboration of experts helps identify gaps and reduce duplication in the areas of sustainable development and sound environmental management.