UAE Space Agency outlines commitments to earth observation and environmental monitoring

The importance of satellite and space technology for environmental monitoring purposes was highlighted by the UAE Space Agency at the Eye of Earth Summit 2015 in Abu Dhabi.

Director General H.E Dr. Mohammed Al Ahbabi speaking at the summit (above), explained that the UAE Space Agency will support international collaboration through space agency cooperation to promote the use of space assets that facilitate joint environmental research projects.

The UAE Space Agency will support and harmonize access to Earth observation monitoring resources from international organizations and locally generated data from MBRSC's DubaiSat.

Dr. Al Ahbabi speaking at the Summit said: “Space assets are our ‘Eyes on Earth’ and enable us to perform Earth Observation. GNSS and satellite communications are indispensable tools for environmental monitoring and management and help pave the way for a sustainable, safe and ecologically balanced environment.”

“The UAE Space Agency strongly believes in the value of a sustainable healthy environment and we will endeavour as part of our mandate to promote earth monitoring and tracking not only for the benefit of the UAE but for the benefit of all mankind and for all future generations by safeguarding the health of our precious plant,” added Al Ahbabi.

Al Ahbabi highlighted the importance of the summit as it aims to promote dialogue and drive international action that revolutionizes the way that data and information is collected, accessed, shared and used for real-world change.

The Director General provided attendees of the Summit with an introduction to the UAE Space Agency, strategy of the UAE Space sector, initiatives and programs. The Agency also outlined its strategic priorities that determine how the UAE will utilise space technology and science to contribute in improving humans’ lives and to ensure proprietary of UAE nationals.”

Eye on Earth was established in 2011 at the first Eye on Earth Summit in Abu Dhabi through a partnership of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Agedi and Unep. This led to the creation of the 2011 Eye on Earth Summit Declaration – a set of 14 governing principles prescribing how to integrate and enhance data for sustainable development. The 2011 Summit also resulted in the formation of eight Special Initiatives whose community members and transformational projects, located all over the world, are key to realising Eye on Earth’s overall mission.