World Ecosystem Extent Dynamics (WEED)

WEED Objectives

The main objective of the World Ecosystem Extent Dynamics project is to develop and showcase a versatile and globally applicable innovative toolkit that utilizes Earth Observation data to map and monitor their changes in extent for terrestrial, freshwater, and coastal (up to the intertidal zones) ecosystems

The project aims to enhance skills and knowledge through country demonstrations in close collaborations with national authorities, both in Europe and worldwide

It will liaise with international efforts an initiatives to support multiple policy frameworks, such as CDB Global Biodiversity Framework, SEEA Ecosystem Accounting, Ramsar, SDG's and Paris agreement on Climate.

NEWS

Introduction of WEED at COP16 Colombia

ESA's World Ecosystem Extent Dynamics (WEED) project recently presented their solution to support countries and other users in generating ecosystem extent maps in the CDB COP16 in Colombia.

Mapping ecosystems distribution in Colombia

On October 26, we met 16 representatives from several Colombian ministries, IDEAM, SINCHI, INVEMAR, DANE and the Humboldt Institute to align activities around ecosystem mapping. 

WEED session at 2024 UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16)

October, 28, GEO, ESA and VITO will organise a presentation on 'Building capacities in countries to map and monitor ecosystem distribution' at COP16.

Kick-Off World Ecosystem Extent Dynamics project

The World Ecosystem Extent Dynamics (WEED) project is pleased to announce it has officially kicked-off as of September 2nd, 2024 at ESA ESRIN in Frascati, Italy.