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GEO-CRADLE: Coordinating and integRating state-of-the-art Earth Observation Activities in the regions of North Africa, Middle East, and Balkans and Developing Links with GEO related initiatives towards GEOSS

GEO-CRADLE brings together key players fully representing the Region of Interest (Balkans, N. Africa and M. East) and the complete EO value chain therein, with the overarching objective of establishing a multi-regional coordination network that will:

  • i. Support the effective integration of existing EO capacities (space/air-borne/in-situ monitoring networks, modelling and data exploitation skills, and past project experience),
  • ii. Provide the interface for the engagement of the complete ecosystem of EO stakeholders (scientists, service/data providers, end-users, governmental organisations, and decision makers),
  • iii. Promote the concrete uptake of EO services and data in response to regional needs, relevant to four thematic priorities: adaptation to climate change, improved food security, access to raw materials and energy)
  • iv. Contribute to the improved implementation of and participation in GEO, GEOSS, and Copernicus in the region.


The GEO-CRADLE ecosystem

In this context, GEO-CRADLE has started by inventorying the regional EO capacities and user needs, through targeted interviews with key actors in the region and through the dissemination of dedicated surveys. The findings of these activities will be combined within a gap analysis that will enable the definition of region specific (G)EO Maturity Indicators and common priority needs.

This will be followed by four feasibility studies, demonstrating how the regional priorities can be tackled by the GEO-CRADLE Network. In parallel, GEO-CRADLE will set up a Regional Data Hub, which abides by the GEOSS Data Sharing Principles and facilitates access to and dissemination of region-related data.

Finally, the project will elaborate a roadmap for the future implementation of GEOSS and Copernicus in the region, with the ultimate aim to enable sustainable exploitation of the regional infrastructures and capacities as well as informed decision-making.


The GEO-CRADLE work breakdown structure

More information can be found online at http://www.geocradle.eu/