UNEP is the global programme of the United Nations (UN) and the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and people to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

UNEP’s dedication to global environmental issues, combined with ESA’s expertise in satellite technology and Earth observation, forges a strong alliance to shape a sustainable future for both our planet and society.

The new collaboration will leverage space-based solutions to address pressing environmental challenges, from climate change and environmental protection to pollution monitoring and disaster risk reduction.

The partnership will facilitate the co-development of innovative Earth observation solutions tackling high-priority topics such as the sustainable Green Transition, ecosystem accounting, nature capital valuation and early warning systems for the environment.

The collaboration also addresses interoperability aspects, including the integration of data from ESA’s Earth Explorer missions, Copernicus Sentinel satellites, together with ESA science and applications results onto UNEP’s platforms, such as the World Environment Situation Room.

ESA’s Director of Earth Observation Programmes, Simonetta Cheli, commented, “The collaboration between ESA and UNEP comes at a critical juncture when the world is grappling with the adverse impacts of climate change. Space technology offers a unique vantage point, providing comprehensive and real-time data crucial for informed decision-making.

“By combining forces, ESA and UNEP are poised to provide invaluable insights to policymakers, governments, and organisations, enabling them to formulate effective strategies for environmental conservation and sustainable development.”