Living WALES — National Level Mapping and Monitoring Though Earth Observations, Ground Data and Models

Living Wales is new initiative that aims to capture the state and dynamics of Wales's landscape, in near real time, historically and into the future (over the long term) through integration of earth observation (EO) data from multiple sensors, supportive ground measurements and process models. Living Wales is building on existing capability, working with relevant national and international organisations in the field, and strengthening research capacity in Wales as well as internationally. Data layers representing land cover, land cover change and a diverse range of environmental variables are being generated and made available to provide better support for government policies and initiatives but also for societal, economic and environmental benefit. Ultimately, Living Wales is anticipated to contribute to more sustainable use and planning of the Welsh landscape and its resources over short to long time (50 year +) scales. The concepts and approach will also be transferable to other countries and regions.