Azercosmos held panel session “From Space to Earth: Data-driven Decision Making in a Changing Climate” at COP29

Azercosmos hosted a key panel session titled “From Space to Earth: Data-driven Decision Making in a Changing Climate” at COP29. The session, held on November 16 highlighted the critical role of Earth observation data in addressing the challenges posed by climate change. 

Moderated by Vugar Bayramov, Advisor to the Chairman on International Relations at Azercosmos, the panel brought together a diverse group of experts from across the globe, including:

• Frank Martin Seifert, Earth Observation Applications Engineer at the European Space Agency
• Ali Abbasov, General Director of the Institute of Control Systems, Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan
• Dr. Ruth Kattumuri, Senior Director, Economic, Youth, and Sustainable Development Directorate, Commonwealth Secretariat
• Ismat Bakhishov, Director of the GIS Centre at Azercosmos
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The session focused on the intersection of space-based technology and climate action, with a particular emphasis on how satellite data can support decision-making processes in the context of environmental challenges.

Key discussion topics included:

• Monitoring sea level rise: The use of satellite-based data to track sea level changes and the potential impacts on coastal communities, particularly small island nations.
• Deforestation and land use: Leveraging space-based technologies to monitor deforestation patterns and land-use changes, and their role in global climate change mitigation strategies.
• Supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS): How Earth observation data can assist small island nations in combating climate change, offering solutions for disaster preparedness, resource management, and sustainable development.
• Data sharing and accessibility: Challenges and opportunities in sharing satellite data, ensuring that countries—especially developing nations—can access the information needed to implement effective climate policies.

Panelists shared their expertise and explored innovative ways to enhance the use of satellite data in monitoring environmental changes and driving sustainable development efforts. The session highlighted the crucial role of international partnerships in overcoming the barriers to data access and utilization, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for all.