Using Earth observations to help address challenges in small island nations

Sitting at the forefront of climate change impacts, developing coastal resilience and adaptation plans is essential for small island nations. Good plans need good data, which is why the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is working with small island stakeholders to harness Earth observations for early warning systems, monitoring systems, and more.

When Dr Nikelene Mclean returned to her home island of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, she was shocked to see that many of the beaches she spent her childhood on were disappearing. “I saw firsthand the negative impacts of climate change,  there was evidence of sea level rise, saltwater intrusion, coral bleaching, and coastal degradation. I realised that more needed to be done, not only for the environment but for the communities that depend on it.”

Every nation will feel the impact of climate change, but “unfortunately, small island nations, or large ocean states, are on the frontline of climate change,” Mclean explains. “We contribute a negligible percentage to the overarching causes of climate change, but we bear the brunt of its impacts.”

“It’s really important for small island nations to develop coastal resilience and adaptation plans. We should also prioritize the implementation of policies and management strategies to protect our people and our resources,” says Mclean. Harnessing Earth observations is crucial for ensuring such policies and strategies are effective.

Earth observations guide decision-making

“Earth observations play a crucial role in understanding and preparing for climate change,” says Dr Sara Venturini, Climate and Biodiversity Coordinator at the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Secretariat. “Satellites, ground-based sensors, and other monitoring systems collect data on variables such as temperature, sea level, wind patterns and ocean currents. These help scientists analyse long-term trends, assess the magnitude of change, and identify anomalies. We can also use these observational data to develop and improve models that simulate the Earth’s climate and ocean to make more reliable predictions or projections about future climate change, including the impact on the ocean and coasts.”

“Earth observations also help assess the health and resilience of marine ecosystems, understand the consequences of climate change for marine biodiversity and fisheries, as well as the vulnerability of coastal communities. They also enable operational services and early warning systems for extreme weather events including hurricanes, storms and heat waves. With a wealth of accessible near-real-time and very-high-resolution Earth observation data, policymakers can make informed decisions to address climate change and its impacts across sectors with accurate, up-to-date information,” Venturini adds.

Developing and working with ocean and coastal observations is not a trivial undertaking. For small island nations, financial, infrastructure, and skills limitations can severely hamper efforts. Fortunately, Earth observation data have become increasingly open and freely available through programs like the EU’s Copernicus Marine Service and Climate Change Services. Meanwhile, GEO is helping make more Earth observation data readily available – and put them to good use.

At GEO, “we support our member countries in understanding how to use Earth observations for the benefit of society and the environment,” says Venturini. As an example, GEO Secretariat is supporting the Maldives to gain access to the global expert network and co-design innovative solutions, while setting up a national coordination mechanism for Earth observation. In May 2023, the newly established Maldives Space Research Organisation hosted the Space for Island Nations Conference (SINC) – the first space conference to focus entirely on island nations’ perspectives, needs, and experiences.