2025 Articles

Earth observations for climate adaptation: tracking progress towards the Global Goal on Adaptation through satellite-derived indicators

Connors, Sarah; Schneider, Rochelle; Nalau, Johanna; Hawkins, Michelle; Ferdini, Sofia; Wang, Ying; Rast, Michael; Aunan, Kristin; Aurambout, Jean-Philippe; Dowell, Mark; Dufau, Claire; Gevaert, Caroline; Goldberg, Matti; Golden, Aaron; Kruczkiewicz, Andrew J.; Krug, Thelma; Lukorito, Cromwel; Moreno-Rodenas, Antonio; Mudau, Naledzani; O’Connor, Brian; Oliveira, Ana; Reymondin, Louis; Rosenzweig, Cynthia; Saucy, Apolline; Trisos, Chris; Yobánolo del Real, Ambrosio

As climate change intensifies, adaptation is essential. This Perspective explores how space-based Earth Observation (EO) data can support tracking progress under the Paris Agreement's Global Goal on Adaptation. Focusing on agriculture, biodiversity, extreme events, and health, it highlights EO’s strengths and challenges. The paper offers recommendations for integrating EO in indicator development, drawing parallels with the Sustainable Development Goals and emphasising the need for standardised, operational EO-based adaptation indicators.