Data key in helping Caribbean cope with hurricanes

Data generated by satellite technology can help Caribbean countries better manage natural disasters and boost climate resilience.

The London-based Commonwealth Secretariat said a virtual event co-organized by the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) showed how remote sensing satellite technology was recently used to support Asian and Pacific countries in responding to super cyclones Amphan and Harold.

“Responding effectively to these complex challenges of disease and disaster will rely more than ever on data that is accurate, reliable and timely, as well as country co-operation to share knowledge, experience and expertise,” said Commonwealth Secretary-General Dame Patricia Scotland.

“Our partnership with UNITAR and other key networks through the Commonsensing Project will help generate the data countries need to inform critical decision-making during times of crisis. It will also lead to more effective climate projects in the long-term and more robust applications for climate finance.”

Through the Commonsensing Project, the data will also help refine applications for climate finance from international donors. This builds on on-going work by the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub (CCFAH), which has, to date, raised US$33.6 million for 75 climate projects in Commonwealth small states. Additional funding of US$575 million has been applied for and is pending approval.