The project aims to develop a globally applicable open-source toolkit for a comprehensive mapping of the extent and distribution of ecosystem types, according to different ecosystem typologies, and for monitoring the temporal variations in ecosystem extent. The robustness and transferability of the methods will be demonstrated through national case studies within and outside of Europe.
Collaborative engagement with national authorities is required, involving their proactive participation in the project from the initial co-development of the EO solution to the validation of the ecosystem maps.
These EO tools will be designed to support the monitoring, assessment and reporting of changes in the extent of ecosystem types under different policy frameworks (e.g. CBD Global Biodiversity Framework, UN SEEA Ecosystem Accounting, new EU regulation pertaining to Ecosystem Accounting), under the guidance of a project advisory board established by ESA.
Learn more about this Invitation To Tender on the esa-star Publication page.