2026 Articles

Assessing the value of earth observations in the humanitarian sector: a framework to analyze the influence of EO within decision making

Kruczkiewicz, Andrew J.; Bernknopf, Richard; Kuwayama, Yusuke; Vergara, Humberto; Hultquist, Carolynne; Ayala, Fernanda; Bazo, Juan; van den Bout, Bastian; van Aalst, Maarten

Integration of Earth science data, particularly Earth Observation data (EO) within the humanitarian sector can be beneficial, yet also can enhance certain risks. Common approaches to assess the value of EO typically involve analyses of the extent to which value, usually economic, increases when EO is introduced. However, the assignment of value to data must not be oversimplified, particularly within the humanitarian sector whereby economic and non-economic value should be considered. Appropriate assignment of value to EO will lead to clearer identification of opportunities for integration, as well as potential risks. Here we describe how significant investment, including normalizing new ways of working, from both scientists and decision makers is needed to ensure an understanding of EO benefits and risks. We highlight key principles to improve scientist and decision maker engagement. Through a case study in Ecuador, we examine how the value of EO arises through its contribution to decision making in support of extreme hydrometeorological event forecasting, early warning and anticipatory action. We find that value of EO is enhanced when scientists develop and disseminate data with direct consideration of specific elements within humanitarian decision making, such as those related to uncertainty, timescales, thresholds and organizational mandates. We demonstrate that in humanitarian contexts structured channels of accountability related to integration and use of EO will improve ethical considerations, enhance the quality of the development of EO-driven applied science, improving Earth observing satellite mission performance and leading to more tailored applications of EO data.