Satellites and AI equip policymakers to assess global climate adaptation progress

A study led by the University of Galway's Ryan Institute details how satellite-based Earth observation and artificial intelligence enable objective monitoring of climate adaptation in the global agrifood sector.

Researchers analyzed how Earth observation data can be linked to indicators in the Global Goal on Adaptation, a Paris Agreement initiative to reduce climate vulnerability. Their work, published in npj Climate and Atmospheric Science and coordinated by the European Space Agency, found that Essential Climate Variables measured from space provide means to support and assess adaptation efforts.

The team identified critical applications for satellite data. In agriculture, satellites track water productivity, irrigation efficiency, and crop migration. Biodiversity monitoring utilizes global mapping platforms to document ecosystem changes. For extreme events, satellite imagery provides quantifiable data on floods, droughts, and heat island effects, exceeding the scope of ground-based observations. Health analysts use land temperature and air quality data from satellites to inform heat exposure and forecast outbreaks.

"Earth observation data should be considered as an integral part of the Global Goal on Adaptation indicators. Our research demonstrates that satellite data can inform adaptation tracking across many sectors, but it must be integrated into the indicator framework from the outset - as experience with the Sustainable Development Goals shows, it's much harder to introduce later," said Dr Sarah Connors, ESA.

Professor Aaron Golden, co-author and Ryan Institute research lead, noted: "The analysis highlights the vital and unique role satellites play in supporting the Paris Agreement's Global Goal on Adaptation. The knowledge capability of consistent, long-term observations offers policymakers tools to measure progress and identify regions at risk."

The research, released during COP30, emphasizes the importance of satellite-derived information for decision-makers aiming to address climate adaptation both globally and in vulnerable regions.

Research Report:Earth observations for climate adaptation: tracking progress towards the Global Goal on Adaptation through satellite-derived indicators