Blog / April 8, 2020
Dear colleagues,
The Group on Earth Observations, like many other communities, is adjusting to new ways of working in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only is it affecting our ability to meet face-to-face, it is also leading us to think about how we can respond collectively to this global crisis.
The GEO Secretariat is aware of activities and organizations within the GEO community, for example the GEO Health Community of Practice, that are using Earth observations in innovative ways to support health efforts now and in the future. As we work together to develop and share Earth observation data, information and knowledge for global challenges, GEO encourages such initiatives and aims to bring them together more systematically.
The GEO Secretariat invites members of the GEO community to inform us of examples of work underway that use Earth observations in support of COVID-19 monitoring, response or recovery. Our aim is to share this information through the GEO website and other communications channels. We are also available to provide support to new communities of practice or other groups looking to collaborate on related topics. Depending on the response, further actions may also be taken including the opportunity to share research and findings at GEO Week 2020 Plenary or the 2020 GEO (Virtual) Symposium.
While our immediate concern lies with the health and well-being of the members of the GEO community, we also recognize that the issues that drive GEO’s work -- including sustainable development, climate change, and disaster risk reduction -- will continue to be crucial after the current pandemic has been defeated. As such, the GEO community remains as committed as ever to supporting decision makers with open Earth observation data and tools.
Responses to this call should be sent to secretariat@geosec.org and provide a brief description of the activity, including institutional participants if possible.
With kind regards,
The GEO Secretariat
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