The European Space Agency (ESA) participated in the European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction, held in Montenegro from 6 to 8 November. The event brought together stakeholders from various sectors and countries to address regional disaster risk challenges in Europe and Central Asia.
The European Forum for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR), now part of the Europe and Central Asia Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, is the primary intergovernmental platform for addressing disaster risk challenges in the region, comprising 55 countries. Held every three years, the platform facilitates knowledge-sharing and the formulation of tangible commitments to reduce disaster risk.
ESA’s Contribution
During the event, ESA underscored the significant role that space technology plays in reducing disaster risks. ESA representatives Anna Hirsch-Holland, R3 Accelerator Coordinator, and Nick Appleyard, Head of the Applications and Solutions Department, shared insights into the Agency’s advancements on:
- Risk Analysis and Prediction: by utilising satellite Earth Observation data in advanced predictive models, authorities can issue more timely and accurate disaster alerts.
- Early Warning Systems: satellite-powered communication technology ensures critical information reaches remote areas, even when terrestrial networks are down.
- Disaster Response: Earth Observation satellites and sensory networks combined with fast connectivity solutions provide a comprehensive and urgent information exchange during disasters, while satellite-aided navigation and georeferencing allows rescue teams to coordinate and prioritise their efforts effectively.
ESA’s Programmes for Civil Security and Space Solutions
ESA’s commitment to disaster risk reduction is further exemplified through the Civil Security from Space programme. This initiative is focused on developing a federated network of space-based crisis response systems. By creating a cohesive and integrated approach, the aim is to provide comprehensive support to crisis management hubs, ensuring that the latest space technology is in the hands of those who need it both before and during times of crisis.
In parallel, ESA’s Space Solutions programme is dedicated to fostering innovation within the industry. This programme supports the development of user-facing applications that enhance resilience and disaster risk reduction efforts. By simplifying the use of space data and tools for non-specialists, ESA is facilitating broader access to the benefits afforded by advancements in space technology, thereby enabling a diverse array of stakeholders to leverage these innovations.
These programmes are integral to ESA’s strategy of integrating space solutions into resilience and disaster management efforts. They represent the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between space technology and practical applications on the ground, ultimately aiming to save lives and mitigate the impacts of disasters.
ESA’s Accelerators
To further its mission, ESA has established three accelerators:
- Space for a Green Future: this accelerator supports the transition to Net Zero, aligning with global sustainability goals.
- Protect: focused on ensuring the resilience of space infrastructure, which is integral to our daily lives.
- Rapid and Resilient Crisis Response (R3): R3 is designed to predict, prepare for, and respond to disasters with efficiency, aiming to develop a groundbreaking space-enabled system.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, ESA is committed to integrating space solutions into disaster response operations through the Rapid and Resilient Crisis Response Accelerator. The Agency is actively seeking to collaborate with experts across various fields to push the boundaries of what space technology can achieve in disaster risk reduction.