The Global Satellite Operators Association
(GSOA) has revealed that the use of Satellite is expected to bring an estimated
$250 billion in social and economic benefits across the world by 2030.
In a recently released report titled
“Satellite for SDGs-Transforming Lives” the GSOA noted that Satellite
technology is a powerful tool that contributes to the achievement of multiple
SDGs by providing valuable data and enabling communications and connectivity in
even the most remote and underserved areas.
“It plays a vital role in monitoring progress,
improving decision-making, and facilitating sustainable development efforts
worldwide. Satellite technology plays a crucial role in advancing the United
Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in various ways,” it said.
Acknowledging that the SDGs are a set of 17
global goals adopted by UN member states in 2015 to address a wide range of
social, economic, and environmental challenges by 2030, the report explained
that connectivity through satellite technology contributes to bridging the
digital divide and accelerating digital transformation, adding that the key to
the future of connectivity relies on pooling the strengths of different
technologies to increase cost efficiency and coverage, whilst simultaneously
working together to deliver the exceptional resilience and greater availability
of services.
“Enabling connectivity in remote and
underserved areas contributes to promoting access to information and
communication technologies (ICTs) and supporting economic development. By
nature, the satellite industry is committed to bridging and overcoming barriers
and challenges by providing connectivity and services to the most vulnerable,
isolated and remote citizens and regions,” it added.
Elaborating on the potential benefits of
Satellite usage, the report disclosed how Satellites could be used for data
collection in many areas, such as climate change, deforestation, land use like
air and water quality, deforestation, and changes in ecosystems, which also
helps in disaster prediction, preparedness, and response, as it enables early
warning systems for natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.
“They can also provide information on crop
health, soil moisture, and weather patterns. This data is valuable for
improving agricultural practices and for increasing food production and food
security. In summary, satellite technology is a powerful tool that contributes
to the achievement of multiple SDGs by providing valuable data and enabling
communication and connectivity in even the most remote and underserved areas.
It plays a vital role in monitoring progress, improving decision-making, and
facilitating sustainable development efforts worldwide,” it stated.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
