Imagine a world in which we can forecast winter weather months in advance; predict where the next outbreak of malaria, SARS or West Nile virus is likely to hit; and, in the U.S. alone, reduce energy costs by about $1 billion annually. Suppose we could more effectively forecast climate, drought and air and water quality?

Sixty countries, the European Commission and more than 40 international organizations are supporting the development of a global Earth Observation System that, over the next decade, will revolutionize the understanding of Earth and how it works. With benefits as broad as the planet itself, the U.S.-led initiative promises to make people and economies around the globe healthier, safer and better equipped to manage basic daily needs. The aim is to make 21st century technology as interrelated as the planet it observes, predicts and protects, providing the science on which sound policy and decision-making must be built.

This NOAA site provides information about the emerging and pioneering U.S. and Global Earth Observation Systems, including a fact sheet, details about U.S. and international efforts, and the specific value to every state, the District of Columbia and the Tribal Nations.