The United Nations has launched a groundbreaking publication, “Leveraging Space Technology for Agricultural Development and Food Security,” marking a significant stride in the global effort to combat food insecurity. This collaborative effort between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) underscores the critical role that space technology can play in addressing the world’s most pressing agricultural challenges.
With the global population surpassing eight billion in 2022, the urgency to innovate and adapt has become more pronounced than ever. The publication, unveiled during the sixty-second session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, highlights how advancements in space technology are essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims for Zero Hunger. The report emphasizes the importance of space technology in monitoring crop health, managing water resources, predicting weather patterns, and responding to crises, all of which are crucial for enhancing food security.
The integration of satellite imagery, global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), and other geospatial technologies is transforming agriculture by providing timely and effective data. These tools enable farmers and policymakers to make informed decisions, thereby improving agricultural productivity and resilience. The report also underscores the need for international collaboration, capacity-building, and policy innovation to fully harness the potential of space technology in agriculture.
UNOOSA Director Aarti Holla-Maini stressed the importance of scaling and promoting these space solutions to empower stakeholders at all levels, from individual farmers to government ministers. She noted that UNOOSA’s Programme on Space Applications has been instrumental in raising awareness and building national capacity to leverage space technologies for agriculture, water, and related domains. This collaboration with FAO aims to advance these technologies globally, fostering a food-secure future for all.
FAO Director of the Land and Water Division Lifeng Li emphasized the transformative potential of technology and collaboration in shaping a sustainable and resilient agricultural future. The publication aligns with FAO’s strategic objectives, highlighting the sustainable use of natural resources to achieve global food security. By leveraging space technology, the FAO and UNOOSA aim to create a more resilient and food-secure world, where innovative solutions can mitigate the impacts of natural disasters, conflicts, and environmental issues.
