Increasing the Utility of Geoss in Developing Countries.
- Paper number
IAC-08.B1.6.6
- Author
Dr. Simon Adebola, France
- Year
2008
- Abstract
With four years into its implementation, the GEOSS collaboration with its aim of using earth observation in addressing the major issues confronting humanity and achieving sustainable development still has many challenges facing it. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the level of involvement of developing countries and show the factors responsible for the varying degrees of success in GEOSS utilization by countries in the Americas, Asia, and Africa. The criteria for classifying the countries were based on the UNDP Human Development Reports and comparisons between the reports, the aims of GEOSS and the roles they could play in the development of these countries were made. A discussion of lessons from developed nations in utilizing earth observation for development and how this could be adapted to developing nations is also included. As part of this study a questionnaire was administered to members of the space community in some countries from the three continents to know the level of awareness of GEOSS and its activities in their regions. An evaluation of the problem of the gap that exists in the ‘end user’ capability and how it can be solved is discussed while noting the peculiarities of developing nations such as poor ground-based data, infrastructure, policies etc. In tackling the utility issue, it was concluded that an emphasis must be placed on education and training, infrastructural development and refocusing government policies in order to ensure smooth incorporation of GEOSS activities and maximize it as a tool for development. Such efforts would require further collaboration between developing countries and other countries where space technology has been successfully utilized as a developmental tool. Possibilities for discussion along these lines and on specific GEOSS focus areas exist. This work is based on an independent study, is aimed at addressing an observed deficiency from the author’s experience and has not been presented before. Funding and attendance at the conference is assured.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.B1.6.6.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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