Regional Knowledge Exchange on Harnessing Digital Innovations for Space: Experiences and Insights
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is reshaping the geospatial landscape through the rapid integration of cutting-edge digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These innovations are revolutionizing how geospatial information is generated, processed, and applied—unlocking new possibilities for addressing complex global challenges like climate change and disaster risk, while supporting progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Recognizing this potential, the Jakarta Ministerial Declaration on Space Applications for Sustainable Development in Asia and the Pacific affirmed the value of harnessing 4IR technologies to accelerate sustainable development. ESCAP’s 2024 Compendium on Geospatial Practices for Sustainable Development in East and North-East Asia highlights how digitalization, connectivity, and automation are enabling the production and application of high-quality geospatial data at scale. Among the many digital innovations shaping the future of geospatial technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role. When combined with geospatial tools such as GIS, remote sensing, and satellite data, AI techniques—often referred to as Geospatial AI (GeoAI)—can enhance the analysis and interpretation of spatial information. While GeoAI is just one part of the broader digital transformation, it illustrates how emerging technologies are expanding the capabilities of space-based applications and supporting more informed, data-driven decision-making.
This regional knowledge exchange will explore how digital technologies—such as AI, IoT, cloud computing, and big data—are driving geospatial innovation across Asia and the Pacific. Speakers will showcase a wide range of initiatives already underway, including the use of GeoAI, that are making geospatial data more available, accessible, affordable, and actionable (the 4As). The event will also address the challenges countries and organizations face in adopting and scaling these innovations, and discuss how to create the right policy, regulatory, and institutional environments to maximize their impact.
This will be held in conjunction with the twenty-ninth session of the Intergovernmental Consultative Committee on the Regional Space Applications Programme for Sustainable Development (ICC-29).
for more information, please contact
Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction Division [email protected]