Satellite Earth observation generates critical data that enables sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and natural resource management to operate more efficiently, plan ahead, and reduce costs - delivering significant economic benefits. One area that can greatly profit from this data is the conservation of ecosystems and species. Currently, the loss of biodiversity is accelerating, with consequences for both people and nature. Canada is responding by investing in talent and expertise nationwide to contribute to global efforts to protect nature and restore biodiversity.
Today, at the 76th International Astronautical Congress, Lisa Campbell, President of the Canadian Space Agency, announced a $5 million investment in innovative solutions using satellite data to tackle biodiversity challenges. Twenty Canadian companies, eight of which collaborate with Indigenous organizations, will develop projects to address issues such as declining species populations, habitat degradation, deteriorating water quality and forest disturbance. By applying artificial intelligence to satellite data, some of the funded projects will detect invasive plants, assess forest and agricultural landscapes, and monitor migratory birds which, in turn, will provide actionable information to safeguard biodiversity.
The selected projects share the common goal of fostering a healthier planet and a stronger future for Canadians. These investments will strengthen Canada's economy by creating highly skilled jobs and foster collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, provinces, and territories. With 35 per cent of project leads being new recipients through this investment, smartEarth is helping grow and diversify Canada's innovative space sector.
