The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has received the prestigious Google Geo for Good Impact Award for its groundbreaking initiative, Earth Map. This initiative, aimed at utilizing freely available geospatial data for climate and environment monitoring and mapping, has been hailed as a significant tool for informed decision-making towards a sustainable future.
Acknowledgment of Impact
The award celebrates organizations and users harnessing Google’s mapping tools to create real-world impact. Earth Map has emerged as a crucial instrument for policymakers and stakeholders, providing essential data to drive positive actions and address pressing environmental challenges.
FAO Deputy Director-General’s Statement
Maria Helena Semedo, FAO Deputy Director-General, emphasized the pivotal role of Earth Map in supporting stakeholders on the frontline of climate and food security. She highlighted the necessity of data-driven decision-making to achieve global goals on climate change and biodiversity.
Features of Earth Map
Earth Map is a user-friendly, cloud-based platform powered by Google Earth Engine and other free data sources. It enables users to visualize, analyze, and monitor changes on Earth’s surface, facilitating multi-temporal and multi-parametric land monitoring and climate assessments without requiring coding skills.
Applications Across Diverse Sectors
Earth Map boasts over 33,000 signed-in users across 50 countries. Its impact spans various regions and projects, aiding in the protection of natural and cultural lands, effective conservation efforts, and ecosystem restoration initiatives.
Role in Project Design and Funding
FAO has utilized Earth Map extensively for project preparation, monitoring, and investment design, aiding Member States in securing funding from international partners like the Green Climate Fund and the World Bank. It has been instrumental in designing large-scale development projects and prioritizing target areas in several countries.
Integration with Google Mapping Tools
The integration of Earth Map with Google mapping tools facilitates dynamic mapping and real-time statistics generation. Its versatility makes it suitable for conservation and environmental initiatives worldwide, with ongoing customizations to fit specific project needs.
Supporting International Cooperation
Earth Map encourages countries to contribute and share national data, promoting international cooperation and impactful projects. It provides free training and support, ensuring a collaborative approach towards addressing global challenges.
Alignment with FAO’s Climate Change Strategy
FAO’s Strategy on Climate Change emphasizes leveraging innovative solutions like Earth Map to safeguard food security and combat hunger. Agrifood systems are highlighted as integral to climate change solutions and environmental protection efforts.
FAO’s Earth Map stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. Recognized with the Google Impact Award, it continues to empower stakeholders worldwide with essential data for informed decision-making and sustainable action.