Managing our most precious resource

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.