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How is remote sensing useful for IEA? Module

Remote sensing is particularly useful for environmental monitoring and reporting because it provides a
unique overhead or “bird’s-eye” perspective from which to observe large areas or regions. Because of 4
this, it can be used for management and planning in large local areas, and for monitoring the progress
of ongoing projects. In many cases, these data collection can offer proof of progress towards success
of projects that are a result of policy decisions designed to improve the state of the environment. Such

data may be essential for further investments.

Another benefit of remotely sensed data is that they are often available on a repetitive basis. This type of Abu Dhabi, UAE
time series data is extensively used to monitor changes in the environment over long periods (examples
in Box 3). This is particularly important for SoE reporting in very rapidly changing environments.

BOX 3 Remotely sensed data

? Provide a unique perspective from which to observe large regions.
? Sensors can measure energy at wavelengths which are beyond the range of human vision

(ultraviolet, infrared, microwave).
? Monitoring is possible from nearly anywhere on earth.
? Remotely sensed images provide good “pictures” for convincing the public and decision

makers to participate in discussions on issues of importance that may not be part of their
daily life.
? Used to monitor long-term changes.
? Readily integrated into GIS.

Types of remotely sensed data
Satellite imagery

Satellite imagery is digital information obtained from sensors carried in satellites, and includes data
both in the visible and non-visible portions of the electromagnetic spectrum (i.e., optical, thermal,
radar). Satellite imagery is available from several sources from around the world (i.e., IKONOS, IRS
Landsat, SPOT, MODIS, Quickbird, WorldView, Geoeve, Envisat, ERS, , Radarsat, NOAA, ASTER), and
from numerous companies that process and distribute satellite data products.

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