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The UK Space Agency, sponsored by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), has allocated funding for ten new projects aimed at addressing climate resilience. These projects cover a range of areas, including watercourse climate resilience mapping, freshwater management, and groundwater-level forecasting for flood and drought management.

One of the funded projects is based in Glasgow and focuses on mapping watercourse climate resilience. Another project in Bristol aims to track real-time climate change and pollution impacts on freshwater sources using multiple data sources. In Shrewsbury, a project has developed an automated groundwater-level forecasting system for improved flood and drought management.

The funding will also support initiatives such as monitoring nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural lands, an automated methane monitoring service, and a satellite-enabled tool for tracking and reducing gas flaring and methane emissions in the global oil and gas industry.

The DSIT minister, George Freeman, emphasized the importance of space technology in addressing environmental challenges. He stated that space provides a unique perspective that can play a significant role in protecting the planet and its inhabitants from water pollution, carbon emissions, and biodiversity threats.

Dr. Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, highlighted the country’s expertise and innovation in Earth observation. He stated that the funding aims to support fresh ideas and accelerate the development of powerful tools that can benefit various users, both within and beyond the space sector.

Each project will receive up to £55,000 in funding to begin development in September. This is the second round of investment by the UK Space Agency specifically focused on climate services development. The first round, awarded earlier this year, included an £85,000 funding pot that supported the initial stages of some of these projects.

These initiatives align with the growing trend of utilizing satellite technology for various purposes. In a speech to the National Farmers Union, Minister Mark Spencer hinted at the use of satellite images for farming inspections. While there is interest in leveraging technology for more efficient processes, concerns about scientific rigor remain.

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