Group on Earth Observations (GEO)

The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is an intergovernmental organisation that aims to realise a future wherein decisions and actions, for the benefit of humankind, are informed by coordinated, comprehensive, and sustained Earth observations and information. 

GEO is a unique global network connecting government institutions, academic and research institutions, data providers, businesses, engineers, scientists and experts to create innovative solutions to global challenges at a time of exponential data growth, human development and climate change that transcend national and disciplinary boundaries. The unprecedented global collaboration of experts helps identify gaps and reduce duplication in the areas of sustainable development and sound environmental management.

Together, the GEO community is creating a Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) to better integrate observing systems and share data by connecting existing infrastructures using common standards. As of 2017, there are more than 200 million open data resources in GEOSS from more than 150 national and regional providers, international organizations as well as the commercial sector.