eARTh observation: A world to be sensed

Geoinformation of specific regions, territories and ecosystems requires tools operating on a stable and integrity basis. Earth Observation Platforms are nowadays a mature tehnology, allowing continous, high quality terrain observations. Consequently, space and air-borne EO is progressively becoming more affordable for new actors. The lecturer describe the main EO challenges and current added value experiences based on more than 30 years of EO at the Institute Cartographic and Geological of Catalonia, in particular addressed to provide geoinformation layers for sustainable and eficience urban areas (Smart City concept). The key note will revise the main drivers, elements, challenges and technologies to be considered when designing Geoinformation programs from Earth Observation assets. The analysis of the added value chain to transform data into knowledge and information is a paramount issue as well as to measure the social, environmental and economic impact of the potential products and services generated. A critical view of main applications in terms of energy efficiency, environmental/health and risk analysis will be discussed from a technical, operational and benefits point of view.