Group on Earth Observations
Overview
The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is an international organization committed to improving the availability, access, and use of Earth observations for the benefit of society. GEO works to actively improve and coordinate global Earth observation systems and promote broad, open data sharing.
History
GEO was established in 2005, following the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa. The organization was created to address the need for coordinated, comprehensive and sustained Earth observations. As of 2021, GEO comprises more than 100 national governments and in excess of 100 Participating Organizations.
Objectives and Activities
The primary objective of GEO is to connect the demand for sound and timely environmental information with the supply of data and information about the Earth system. GEO aims to build a Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) that will link Earth observation resources worldwide across multiple Societal Benefit Areas (SBAs). The SBAs include areas such as disaster resilience, climate, water, weather, ecosystems, agriculture and biodiversity.
GEO's activities are guided by its Strategic Plan, which sets out the vision, mission, strategic objectives, and means of implementation for GEOSS. The organization operates through its annual Work Programme, which details the specific tasks and initiatives to be undertaken by the GEO community to implement GEOSS.
Structure and Governance
GEO is governed by a Plenary, which consists of representatives from all GEO Members and Participating Organizations. The Plenary is the primary decision-making body of GEO. The Executive Committee, composed of representatives from GEO Members, provides strategic guidance to the Plenary.
The GEO Secretariat, based in Geneva, Switzerland, supports the implementation of GEO's activities. The Secretariat is led by a Director, who is appointed by the Plenary.
Impact
GEO's work has led to significant advancements in the availability and use of Earth observations. Through GEOSS, GEO has improved the interoperability and coordination of Earth observation systems, and has promoted the sharing of data and information to support decision-making in a range of areas.
