From satellites to sustainability: discover the impact of space tech on water management

“Embracing space in water management will take our knowledge from a local to a global level” explains Kathelijne Beenen. Satellites and spatial information services, intricately linked with climate and water systems, form a vital part of our environmental management toolkit. All stakeholders in water management, agriculture and Nature-based Solutions should be informed about the ways this technology can enhance our understanding and management of water resources. Want to find out how and why? Discover the answers by joining the “Space Technology for (Water) Dummies” deep-dive session at Waterproof 2024, hosted by the Netherlands Space Office (NSO) and users who have benefitted from space technology.

Who is Kathelijne Beenen?

Kathelijne’s expertise lies in innovation, and she has supported both the private sector and governments through her work with the NSO for the past three and a half years. Her academic background is in geoscience and remote sensing at Delft University of Technology, where she utilised satellite data to improve local agriculture. She is currently focussing on applying space technology to environmental challenges, ranging from local projects in Mozambique and Colombia to advising the Dutch government and Dutch businesses on leveraging satellite data for environmental solutions.

The urgency of space technology in water management

When asked why this topic is crucial, Kathelijne emphasised the role of space technology and data in addressing water management and climate challenges. “Earth observation and Internet-of-Things sensors (connected via satellites) provide us with real-time data and long-term trends, which are essential for making informed decisions in water management,” she explains. The ability to monitor and predict agricultural yields, understand land use, and manage our natural resources more effectively are indispensable to how we approach environmental challenges.

International developments and the future

Kathelijne highlights a significant shift in the space sector: from technology-driven satellite development to user-centric solutions. This evolution means more tailored services for a variety of end-users. Looking forward, seeing the steep increase in the number of Earth observation satellites and use of machine learning and AI, she predicts an increase in the availability and accessibility of satellite data and information services, fostering a more sustainable approach to managing our natural resources.

Why attend “Space technology for (water) dummies”?

“It’s a sneak preview of what space technology and Earth observation have to offer for water, climate change, and biodiversity. The session aims to inform, inspire, and engage us in meaningful dialogue.”

Join us at Waterproof 2024

Join us at Waterproof 2024 to explore how space technology can assist us in understanding, managing, and preserving our most precious resource: water.