The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 22 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
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Freshwater is at top of the list of important natural resources. In fact, according to this year’s Global Risk Report by the World Economic Forum, water crises are one of the five biggest risks to society.
With this precious resource coming under increasing pressure, World Water Week focuses on global water issues.
Information from satellites observing Earth can be used to monitor and map freshwater so that it can be managed more effectively. Satellite data can be used to assess the availability of water, which is particularly important for countries concerned about water security. While water security is less of a concern in Europe than it is for countries that are prone to drought, in Africa for example, it is nevertheless also important for Europe to monitor this basic resource. The video shows the Alps as a significant source of water and focuses on water quality. It also shows how rivers flow across national borders. Robust and systematic data delivered by satellites are particularly important for a harmonised monitoring system.