Applications Fields, Status Quo and Prospects

There is an increasing need for cost effective Earth Observation (EO) missions to meet the information requirements of an almost ever growing range of applications. This is perhaps most clearly seen in the many current moves for international co-operation in the field of environment where measurements from Earth Observing satellites are an essential element. This is especially so where we need to acquire, analyse and use data documenting the condition of the Earth's resources and environment on a long-term (permanent) basis. As can be seen from the list of topics addressed in this chapter, uses range from essential mapping activities to global climate, with information needs arising because of legislation and through international commitments. Hazards, agriculture, land degradation, desertification, deforestation, sustainable forest management, climate, our cryosphere and others topics are all highlighted here. The international community is addressing these needs. Not just through environmental conventions such as the UNFCCC and its Kyoto Protocol, but also through commitments entered into at the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) in Johannesburg. The heads of state of 191 nations called for improved global observations for better decision-making, and emphasised the key role of satellites in providing these. This call for international co-operation was certainly heard at the G8 Summit in France in June of 2003 and the first Earth Observation Summit which followed in Washington, July 31st 2003.JRC.H.3-Global environement monitorin