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III. SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES

Introduction

Earth observation from space has opened a new dimension for Earth science research. Already, the results have revolutionized the study of global change. Spaceborne sensors have provided Earth scientists with data that are essential for diagnosing long-term environmental problems.

However, Earth observation from space also has many immediate and direct applications for social and economic development, provided that space-generated data are translated into information that is relevant to social and economic concerns. The key is to be aware of the ultimate social and economic applications from the beginning. When end-to-end information systems are designed, the final terminals must not be in research laboratories. The flow of information must extend to users in the general community, and it must be in a form they can use.

Comments Related to Potential ISY Activities

Remotely sensed data, when applied at global, regional, and national levels, can be the basis for important information not only for scientific understanding but also for better economic and social development of the world's people. Economic and social application of remote sensing data and information can and must proceed before our scientific understanding is perfected. Humankind is now a major influence on the planetary environment and resources. These points should be recognized by the ISY program and by any Earth observation system.

The achievement of sustainable development is now an accepted goal for the world community; space derived data should play an important role in reaching this goal. Sustainable development, which is concerned with the maintenance of renewable natural resources yields while conserving the natural resource base, has important environmental, economic, and social implications. Consequently, it must be a factor in the planning and execution of the International Space Year, the Mission to Planet Earth, and the International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme. Thus it should be taken into account in the design of appropriate satellite sensors and systems for International Space Year activities and, most importantly, should push the development of end-to-end information systems as discussed below.

To be most useful, remotely sensed data must be considered in relation to other data, particularly social and economic data. It follows that there is an urgent need for the involvement of the applied social sciences (i.e., economists, sociologists, demographers, development planners) in the planning process of the International Space Year.
It is necessary to put information derived from remotely sensed data into forms that are readily understood by people worldwide. This will involve different forms for policymakers (e.g., planners); specific users (e.g., fishermen's cooperatives); and the public (taxpayers, voters). For example, all these classes of users need to be able to understand how their local actions can effect [[affect]] other regions and vice versa. Also, it must be demonstrated clearly that space data enhance and complement traditional ground data systems.

We must begin now to train future decision makers and planners to think in terms of global systems. It is important that consideration be given to transforming space-derived information into forms suitable for inclusion in education programs. It is important to recognize and encourage the use of space technology in education and for education.

Additionally, specialized training in remote sensing technologies within the work force [[workforce]] is needed to develop the unique skills required to merge remotely sensed and conventional information.

The working group felt that in general its priorities and recommendations are consistent with but go beyond both the Global Information System Test proposed in other working groups and similar scientific projects.

Priorities for action ought to be considered at global, regional and local levels. Possible areas include:

• Modifying the impacts of potential climate changes, e.g., sea level rise, changes in rainfall regimes.

• Measuring the depletion of stratospheric ozone. These measurements should be linked to a global study of potential hazards to human health, to other organisms, and to ecosystems.

• Land degradation including desertification and deforestation has been designated by many authorities (e.g. World Commission of Environment and Development, African Ministers Environment Conference) as being perhaps the major environmental problem facing the world in general and developing countries in particular. Better understanding of land degradation through regional or local studies would be a useful ISY outcome.

• Food security, including knowledge of supply, improvement of crop forecasts, and a better prediction of drought conditions is now a worldwide problem.
Information derived from the study of global hydrological cycle can be applied usefully in this area.

• A global land-use survey with a baseline of 1991 is essential in view of rapidly growing world population and the growing pressure of that population on various ecological zones.

• Monitoring and measurement of sea state, sea surface