#46: GEO: A Global, Authoritative Voice on Earth Observation with Yana Gevorgyan, Group on Earth Observations (GEO)

Today, I am speaking with Yana Gevorgyan, the Secretariat Director of the Group on Earth Observations (or GEO). GEO is a unique global network connecting government institutions, academic and research institutions, data providers, businesses, engineers, scientists and experts to create innovative solutions based on Earth observation.

I wanted to have Yana on the podcast to discuss what GEO does and its role in the global EO sector, especially at a time when the importance of EO is growing around the world. So, it's critical there is a global authoritative voice for EO particularly focused on building impact-driven projects through partnerships both between the global public sector and the private sector.

In this episode, Yana and I discuss her story, the significance of an organisation like GEO, examples of GEO-led projects, the importance of partnerships in EO and more.

GEO's Website: http://earthobservations.org/

Yana's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-gevorgyan-8b9249a/

GEO Week 2022: https://www.earthobservations.org/geoweek2022.php

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Before we get to the episode, a quick note about one of the contributors for the podcast - Geoawesomeness.

Geoawesomeness is a community-based platform for all things geospatial and Earth observation. I wanted to mention one of their recent initiatives called Earth Observation Hub. 

Earth Observation Hub or EO Hub, from Geoawesomeness, is a one-stop-shop for all topics related to geospatial data. It's made for policymakers, business leaders, geospatial experts, and enthusiasts, to showcase how EO is transforming our world. Built in collaboration with UP42, an EO startup, EO Hub has curated articles, podcasts, webinars and much more. 

I recommend you check out EO Hub at geoawesomeness.com/eo-hub"

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01:47: Yana’s story - From Armenia to the US to Switzerland, NOAA experience and GEO

11:45: GEO and its significance in being the authoritative voice in EO

23:42: The role of the private EO sector in creating value

28:07: Some examples of impact-driven, GEO projects

35:06: Building inclusive local solutions - the case of Digital Earth Africa

39:14: How do we make the most impact with Earth observation through partnerships?

43:40: What worries Yana about the state of EO and what can we improve

46:12: Wrap-up + context on GEO Week in Accra, Ghana