Uniting Our World: Insights from the 2024 ESRI User Conference Plenary Sessions

In a world facing unprecedented challenges, the significance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in fostering global connections and solving complex problems has never been more evident. The 2024 ESRI User Conference, held in San Diego, brought together visionaries, experts, and leaders from various fields to discuss the transformative power of GIS in creating a sustainable and resilient future. The plenary sessions highlighted the diverse applications of GIS, from improving urban planning and addressing climate change to enhancing humanitarian efforts and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Power of GIS in Addressing Global Challenges

In an interconnected world, where the complexities of global challenges grow ever more intricate, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) emerge as a pivotal tool to navigate these multifaceted issues. The 2024 ESRI User Conference highlighted the profound impact of GIS across various sectors, illustrating its capacity to foster understanding, drive actionable insights, and facilitate transformative change. By bridging spatial and temporal gaps, GIS helps to unravel the layers of data that shape our world, enabling more informed decisions and targeted interventions.

Understanding Interconnections and Dependencies

GIS plays a crucial role in revealing the intricate web of interconnections and dependencies that define our global systems. For instance, in urban environments, GIS mapping helps planners and policymakers understand how different neighborhoods relate to each other, identifying areas with disparate outcomes in health, education, and economic opportunities. This spatial analysis allows for targeted solutions that address root causes of inequalities, fostering more equitable urban development.

“We use GIS mapping now to correlate the life outcome data for people living in the city, where the shortened lifespans are, where the low school performances are. You can see how one thing led to another very, very clearly,” a conference speaker noted. This ability to visualize and analyze relationships across space and time is essential for creating interventions that are both effective and sustainable.

Enhancing Communication and Collaboration

One of the most compelling aspects of GIS is its power as a communication tool. Maps transcend language barriers, making complex data accessible and understandable to a wide audience. This is particularly valuable in global collaboration efforts, where diverse stakeholders must come together to address shared challenges.

“Being able to use maps to communicate is really, really important. You don’t need a language to understand maps. It really helps with communication between different companies, different organizations, even different countries,” highlighted a speaker during the plenary session. Whether in disaster response, international development, or environmental conservation, GIS facilitates a common understanding that drives coordinated action.

Empowering Sustainable Development

Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 requires a comprehensive understanding of the spatial dimensions of development challenges. GIS provides this understanding by mapping out critical indicators and monitoring progress over time. This spatial awareness is indispensable for addressing issues like poverty, hunger, health, education, and environmental sustainability.

“You cannot fight poverty without knowing where poor people are. You can’t fight hunger without understanding what’s happening to crop yields. You can’t have universal health coverage without knowing where the clinics are,” emphasized another speaker. By integrating diverse datasets, GIS offers insights into where interventions are most needed and what strategies are likely to be most effective.

Addressing Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss

The climate crisis and biodiversity loss are among the most pressing global challenges, with far-reaching impacts on ecosystems, economies, and human health. GIS is instrumental in tracking environmental changes, predicting future scenarios, and guiding conservation efforts. By mapping deforestation, land degradation, species distribution, and habitat loss, GIS helps identify critical areas for intervention and protection.

“I really believe that GIS is like the eyeglasses for biodiversity and the climate crisis. The degradation of our ecosystems is having direct impacts on our health,” a plenary speaker observed. GIS enables the visualization of these impacts, supporting efforts to mitigate climate change, preserve biodiversity, and promote sustainable land use practices.

Supporting Humanitarian Efforts and Crisis Response

In humanitarian crises, timely and accurate information is vital for effective response and recovery. GIS supports humanitarian efforts by providing real-time data on population movements, resource distribution, and infrastructure damage. This spatial intelligence is crucial for planning and coordinating aid, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.

“When GIS shows us the rapid melting of glaciers, it is not merely a statistic. It is a call to action to combat climate change with urgency and resolve,” stated Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. Similarly, in conflict zones or areas affected by natural disasters, GIS helps anticipate needs, allocate resources efficiently, and restore peace and stability.

Driving Innovation and Future Planning

The future of GIS lies in its ability to integrate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics. These advancements will further enhance the capabilities of GIS, enabling more precise predictions, automated analyses, and dynamic modeling of complex systems. As we look ahead, GIS will continue to evolve, offering new tools and techniques to address the ever-changing landscape of global challenges.

“We need to scale up our geospatial efforts and integrate your expertise into our broader vision of a United Nations 2.0,” urged Amina Mohammed. This vision emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, innovation, and partnerships to enhance global effectiveness and responsiveness.

The plenary sessions at the 2024 ESRI User Conference underscored the transformative power of GIS in addressing global challenges. By providing a deeper understanding of spatial relationships, enhancing communication and collaboration, empowering sustainable development, and supporting humanitarian efforts, GIS is indispensable in our collective efforts to build a better world. As technology advances and our understanding of complex systems grows, GIS will remain at the forefront of innovation, driving progress toward a more just, sustainable, and connected future.

GIS in Urban Planning: The Singapore Experience

Singapore, a city-state renowned for its advanced urban planning and sustainable development, has embraced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to address its unique challenges and enhance the quality of life for its residents. At the 2024 ESRI User Conference, representatives from the National Parks Board (NParks) and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) showcased how Singapore leverages GIS technology to create a livable, sustainable, and climate-resilient city. This article delves into the various ways GIS is integrated into urban planning in Singapore, highlighting key projects and innovations.

Transforming Singapore into a City in Nature

Singapore’s vision of becoming a “City in Nature” is at the heart of its urban planning strategy. This vision aims to balance urban development with the preservation of natural capital, ensuring that residents can enjoy a green and resilient environment. GIS plays a critical role in realizing this vision by providing the tools needed to plan, manage, and sustain urban greenery.

Macro-Level Planning and Ecological Corridors

At the macro level, Singapore has set aside more than 20% of its land to preserve tropical rainforests and mangroves. Additionally, the city has developed over 400 parks and gardens to ensure that green spaces are accessible within walking distance of every household. GIS helps in mapping and managing these green spaces, creating a network of ecological corridors that connect key biodiversity habitats.

Landscape Replacement Policy (LUSH)

Singapore’s Landscape Replacement Policy, known as LUSH, requires new developments to restore greenery displaced during construction. This policy is supported by GIS technology, which helps planners visualize and implement green spaces on building facades, rooftops, and surrounding areas. This integration of greenery into urban development not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to biodiversity and climate resilience.

Leveraging GIS for 3D Urban Planning

One of the standout features of Singapore’s urban planning approach is its use of 3D GIS technology. The URA has developed a 3D system of record called ePlanner, which serves over 1,600 users across more than 40 government agencies. This web-based platform integrates 3D building data with over 200 island-wide data layers, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s spatial context.

Island-Wide 3D Model

The ePlanner platform allows users to view an island-wide 3D model of Singapore, accessible through web browsers. This model includes detailed information on buildings, walking and cycling networks, underground infrastructure, and more. By integrating these diverse datasets, planners can gain a holistic understanding of the urban environment, facilitating more informed decision-making.

UrbanSynth and Site Simulation Tools

To streamline the urban planning process, Singapore has developed innovative tools like UrbanSynth. By translating development rules into computer code, UrbanSynth can quickly generate multiple 3D scenarios for site parcels, incorporating accurate setbacks and building typologies. This allows planners to simulate different development options and assess their impact on housing demand, green corridors, and other planning metrics.

Enhancing Environmental Management with GIS

GIS is also pivotal in managing Singapore’s extensive green spaces and urban trees. NParks, which oversees over 3,000 hectares of green space and more trees than humans in Singapore, utilizes GIS to ensure effective and efficient management.

Tree Mapping and Public Engagement

Since 2000, NParks has mapped every urban tree in Singapore, assigning each a unique ID. This data is accessible through the public tree map, Trees SG, where residents can learn about local trees and even give them virtual hugs. The detailed 3D models of trees, created using GIS, aid in planning tree planting and maintenance efforts.

Maven 2: GIS-Based Asset Management

Maven 2 is NParks’ web-based GIS asset management system, which integrates with various internal and external stakeholders. This system supports all NParks officers and contractors in managing the city’s greenery. It includes a tree inspection mobile application, which guides field officers through risk assessments and allows for real-time updates and work order issuance through Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

Innovative Monitoring and Visualization Tools

NParks has also developed cutting-edge tools to enhance urban greenery management. For instance, a 3D digital twin of every tree in the database is created using LiDAR technology and artificial intelligence. This digital twin allows for advanced visualization of situations such as road clearances and tree health analysis. Additionally, remote tree management systems and sensor networks monitor tree tilts and other critical parameters, ensuring prompt action when necessary.

Engaging the Community and Enhancing Communication

Effective urban planning in Singapore is not just about using advanced technology but also about engaging the community and enhancing communication. GIS facilitates this by providing interactive and visually appealing tools that help convey complex information to the public and stakeholders.

Custom Cartography and Fly-Through Visualizations

The use of custom cartography styles, such as watercolor-based maps, and fly-through visualizations in ePlanner helps planners present their vision in a compelling and easily understandable manner. These tools enable residents to experience what it would be like to live in a city in nature, fostering greater community support and involvement.

Collaborative Platforms and Real-Time Data Sharing

GIS platforms like ePlanner also support collaboration among different government agencies and external partners. By sharing real-time data and visualizations, these platforms enable more coordinated and effective urban planning efforts. The integration of existing 3D trees from NParks into the ePlanner platform is one example of how different agencies work together to achieve common goals.

Singapore’s use of GIS in urban planning exemplifies how advanced technology can be harnessed to create a sustainable, livable, and resilient city. Through innovative applications of 3D modeling, asset management, and community engagement, GIS supports the city-state’s vision of becoming a “City in Nature.” As Singapore continues to evolve and address new challenges, GIS will remain a critical tool in shaping its urban landscape and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The Singapore experience serves as a model for other cities around the world, demonstrating the transformative potential of GIS in urban planning.

Amina Mohammed: GIS as a Catalyst for Global Sustainability

Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, delivered a powerful message at the 2024 ESRI User Conference, highlighting the pivotal role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in advancing global sustainability. Her address underscored how GIS technology is not just a tool but a critical asset in navigating the complexities of our world, supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and fostering a sustainable and resilient future. This article explores the key points of Mohammed’s speech and the transformative impact of GIS on global sustainability initiatives.

The Importance of GIS in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

Amina Mohammed emphasized that GIS is indispensable in the pursuit of the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. She noted that only 17% of these goals are currently on track, a stark reality that calls for urgent and intensified efforts. GIS provides the clarity and insight needed to act decisively and accelerate progress towards these goals.

Mapping for Understanding and Action

GIS technology empowers us to see beyond the horizon, understand the intricacies of our planet, and respond with precision and purpose. For instance, GIS enables the mapping of poverty, hunger, health coverage, and education, helping to identify where interventions are most needed. By visualizing spatial relationships and trends, GIS supports data-driven decision-making and the effective allocation of resources.

Combating Climate Change and Environmental Degradation

Mohammed highlighted that GIS is like “eyeglasses for biodiversity and the climate crisis.” It helps us understand the impacts of environmental degradation on health and ecosystems. For example, GIS maps can show the rapid melting of glaciers, deforestation, and the spread of diseases from stressed ecosystems to humans. These visualizations are not merely statistics; they are calls to action to combat climate change with urgency and resolve.

Supporting Humanitarian Efforts and Peacekeeping

In humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts, GIS enables better understanding of movements, locations, and responses. For instance, GIS can map the displacement of populations due to conflict or natural disasters, helping to anticipate their needs and coordinate relief efforts. It also supports peacekeeping missions by providing spatial data on conflict zones, resource distribution, and the needs of affected communities.

Integrating GIS into the UN’s Broader Vision

Amina Mohammed’s vision for the United Nations 2.0 involves leveraging technology, innovation, and partnerships to enhance the organization’s effectiveness in addressing global challenges. GIS is central to this transformative vision, providing the tools needed to modernize systems, embrace digital transformation, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

The Global Digital Compact

One of the key components of the UN 2.0 initiative is the Global Digital Compact, which aims to ensure that digital technology is inclusive, safe, and aligned with human rights. GIS plays a crucial role in this effort by providing geospatial data that supports transparency, accountability, and equitable access to information. This compact is part of a broader effort to harness technology and innovation to achieve the SDGs.

Summit of the Future

The upcoming Summit of the Future in New York, scheduled for September, will bring together world leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of multilateralism. GIS will be a focal point of these discussions, with an emphasis on how geospatial technology can support the reform of international financial architecture, a new agenda for peace, and the achievement of the SDGs.

Engaging the GIS Community

Amina Mohammed called on the GIS community to engage actively in solving the world’s toughest problems. She stressed that the ideas, ingenuity, and skills of GIS experts are needed now more than ever. By integrating GIS expertise into sustainable development, humanitarian efforts, peacekeeping, and human rights, the GIS community can make a significant impact on global challenges.

Opportunities for Collaboration

The United Nations offers numerous opportunities for GIS experts to contribute to global sustainability efforts. Whether at UN headquarters in New York or with UN country teams and resident coordinators in 162 countries and territories, GIS professionals can collaborate with colleagues in various fields to scale up action on the SDGs. This collaborative approach is essential for creating a future where no one is left behind.

Real-World Examples of GIS in Action

Supporting Economic Development

GIS is used to support economic development by mapping infrastructure, resources, and opportunities. For example, GIS can identify areas with high potential for renewable energy development, helping to attract investment and create jobs. It can also support urban planning and development by providing spatial data on land use, transportation, and housing.

Peacekeeping and Conflict Resolution

In peacekeeping missions, GIS provides critical data on conflict zones, troop movements, and humanitarian needs. This information helps peacekeepers and humanitarian organizations coordinate their efforts and respond effectively to crises. GIS also supports conflict resolution by providing spatial data on resources, population distribution, and territorial boundaries.

Humanitarian Relief and Disaster Response

GIS is essential in humanitarian relief and disaster response efforts. It enables the mapping of disaster-affected areas, helping to coordinate relief efforts and allocate resources where they are most needed. GIS also supports early warning systems and disaster preparedness by providing data on hazards, vulnerabilities, and risks.

Environmental Conservation and Biodiversity Protection

GIS supports environmental conservation and biodiversity protection by mapping critical habitats, tracking species distributions, and monitoring environmental changes. This information helps conservation organizations and policymakers make informed decisions about land use, resource management, and protection efforts.

Amina Mohammed’s address at the ESRI User Conference highlighted the transformative power of GIS in advancing global sustainability. By providing the tools needed to understand and address complex challenges, GIS is a catalyst for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a more just, equitable, and resilient world. The GIS community has a crucial role to play in this effort, and through collaboration and innovation, it can help shape a sustainable future for all.

The Minnesota Model: Governor Tim Walz’s Vision

Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota presented a compelling vision for the future at the 2024 ESRI User Conference, emphasizing the transformative role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in achieving sustainable development, social equity, and economic growth. Drawing on his background as a geography teacher and his experiences as a public servant, Governor Walz outlined how Minnesota leverages GIS technology to address pressing challenges and create a better future for its residents. This article explores the key elements of Governor Walz’s vision and the innovative use of GIS in the “Minnesota Model.”

Embracing GIS for Sustainable Development

Governor Walz emphasized that GIS is integral to Minnesota’s efforts to achieve sustainable development. He highlighted several initiatives where GIS technology is being used to make informed decisions and promote environmental stewardship.

Mapping and Protecting Natural Resources

Minnesota, known for its vast natural resources, including numerous lakes, forests, and peatlands, uses GIS to map and protect these critical areas. For instance, peatlands, which cover 3% of the Earth’s surface but store 30% of its soil carbon, are vital for climate regulation. Minnesota has the second-largest peatland area in the United States, and GIS is used to map these regions accurately, ensuring that land use permits and development plans do not compromise these important carbon sinks.

Clean Energy and Climate Resilience

Minnesota has set ambitious clean energy goals, aiming for 100% clean energy by 2040. GIS plays a crucial role in planning and implementing renewable energy projects. By mapping wind patterns, solar radiation, and suitable sites for renewable energy infrastructure, GIS helps optimize the deployment of clean energy resources. Additionally, GIS is used to assess and mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as flooding and extreme weather events, by providing real-time data for emergency response and long-term planning.

Promoting Social Equity and Inclusion

Governor Walz highlighted the importance of using GIS to promote social equity and address systemic disparities. He shared several examples of how Minnesota leverages GIS to ensure that all residents have access to essential services and opportunities.

Universal Free Meals for Students

Minnesota’s initiative to provide universal free meals for students is a prime example of using GIS to promote social equity. By mapping schools and student populations, GIS helps identify areas with the highest need for free meal programs. This data-driven approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, reducing childhood hunger and improving educational outcomes.

Reducing Childhood Poverty

To combat childhood poverty, Minnesota implemented the most aggressive child tax credit in the country. GIS is used to map areas with high concentrations of low-income families, enabling targeted outreach and support. By overlaying data on income, education, and healthcare, GIS helps the state identify and address the root causes of poverty, ensuring that interventions are effective and equitable.

Enhancing Public Health and Safety

Governor Walz discussed how GIS technology is critical in enhancing public health and safety across Minnesota. He provided examples of how GIS supports healthcare, emergency response, and environmental health initiatives.

COVID-19 Response and Vaccination Campaign

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Minnesota used GIS to manage its response and vaccination campaign. GIS maps provided real-time data on infection rates, hospital capacity, and vaccination sites, enabling the state to allocate resources effectively and communicate crucial information to the public. This approach contributed to Minnesota achieving high vaccination rates and low COVID-19 mortality rates.

Lead Service Line Replacement

Minnesota is committed to removing all lead service lines, a significant public health initiative. GIS is used to map the locations of lead pipes and prioritize replacements based on risk factors such as population density, age of infrastructure, and socioeconomic status. This data-driven approach ensures that the most vulnerable communities receive timely interventions, reducing lead exposure and improving public health outcomes.

Building a Resilient and Inclusive Economy

Governor Walz’s vision for Minnesota includes building a resilient and inclusive economy that benefits all residents. He highlighted several initiatives where GIS supports economic development and workforce training.

Broadband Expansion

Access to high-speed internet is essential for economic growth and social inclusion. Minnesota uses GIS to map broadband coverage and identify areas with limited or no access. This information guides investments in broadband infrastructure, ensuring that rural and underserved communities are connected, and can participate in the digital economy.

Workforce Development and Training

GIS supports workforce development by mapping labor market trends, educational institutions, and training programs. By overlaying data on job opportunities and skill gaps, GIS helps align workforce training initiatives with industry needs. This approach ensures that residents have access to the skills and education required for high-demand jobs, fostering economic growth and reducing unemployment.

Governor Tim Walz’s vision for Minnesota, supported by the innovative use of GIS technology, offers a model for other states and regions to follow. By leveraging GIS to promote sustainable development, social equity, public health, and economic growth, Minnesota is creating a better future for all its residents. The “Minnesota Model” demonstrates how data-driven decision-making and a commitment to inclusivity can address complex challenges and build a resilient, thriving community. As Governor Walz emphasized, GIS is not just a tool but a catalyst for transformative change, and its potential to create a more just and sustainable world is immense.

Education and the Future: Empowering the Next Generation

Education has always been a cornerstone of societal progress, but in today’s rapidly evolving world, it is more critical than ever to empower the next generation with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to navigate and shape the future. At the 2024 ESRI User Conference, various sessions highlighted the transformative role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in education, underscoring how these tools can inspire, educate, and equip students to tackle global challenges. This article explores the key themes and insights from these discussions, emphasizing the importance of integrating GIS into education to prepare future leaders.

The Role of GIS in Modern Education

Enhancing Spatial Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

GIS technology fosters spatial thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in many fields. By engaging with GIS, students learn to visualize, analyze, and interpret data in ways that reveal patterns and relationships. This hands-on approach to learning encourages critical thinking and enhances students’ ability to solve complex problems. For example, students can use GIS to study environmental changes, urban development, and social issues, gaining insights that go beyond traditional textbook learning.

Real-World Applications and Experiential Learning

One of the most significant advantages of GIS in education is its ability to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. Students can work on projects that address actual community and global issues, making learning more relevant and impactful. For instance, they can map local environmental hazards, analyze demographic changes, or plan sustainable urban developments. These projects provide experiential learning opportunities, where students apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, preparing them for future careers and civic engagement.

Empowering Students Through Innovative Programs

James Madison University’s Geospatial Semester

The Geospatial Semester program at James Madison University (JMU) exemplifies how GIS can be integrated into high school curricula to enhance learning and foster student engagement. This dual-enrollment program allows high school students to take GIS courses for college credit, providing them with advanced skills and knowledge. Students work on projects that address local and global issues, such as climate change, public health, and urban planning, using GIS to analyze data and develop solutions.

At the conference, Ryan Miller, a teacher from Washington Liberty High School, shared inspiring stories of his students’ projects. These ranged from analyzing the impact of sea-level rise on Naval Station Norfolk to studying food deserts in Arlington, Virginia. Such projects not only deepen students’ understanding of GIS but also instill a sense of responsibility and empowerment as they address real-world challenges.

Collaborative Learning and Community Engagement

Education programs that incorporate GIS often emphasize collaboration and community engagement. By working together on projects, students develop teamwork and communication skills, which are crucial for their future careers. Additionally, involving community stakeholders in these projects helps students understand the broader impact of their work and fosters a sense of civic duty.

For example, students in the Geospatial Semester program collaborate with local government agencies, non-profits, and businesses to address community needs. This collaboration not only enriches their learning experience but also benefits the community by providing valuable insights and solutions to local issues.

The Future of Education: Integrating GIS at All Levels

K-12 Education: Building a Strong Foundation

Integrating GIS into K-12 education can lay a strong foundation for students, helping them develop spatial awareness and analytical skills from an early age. Programs like Esri’s ArcGIS for Schools provide teachers with the resources and training needed to incorporate GIS into their lessons. These tools can be used across various subjects, from geography and history to science and math, making learning more interactive and engaging.

Higher Education: Preparing Future Professionals

At the higher education level, GIS is a valuable tool for preparing students for a wide range of careers. Universities across the globe offer GIS courses and degree programs, equipping students with the technical skills and knowledge required in fields such as environmental science, urban planning, public health, and more. By providing students with hands-on experience using GIS technology, these programs ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to solving complex global issues.

Professional Development: Lifelong Learning

The integration of GIS into education should not end with graduation. Lifelong learning and professional development are essential in today’s fast-paced world. GIS professionals can benefit from continuous learning opportunities, such as workshops, webinars, and conferences, to stay updated on the latest advancements and best practices in the field. Organizations like Esri offer various training programs and certifications to support professional growth and development.

The Broader Impact of GIS in Education

Fostering Global Citizenship

By using GIS to study global issues, students develop a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our world. This global awareness fosters a sense of responsibility and empathy, encouraging students to become active global citizens who are committed to making a positive impact. Whether addressing climate change, social inequalities, or public health challenges, GIS empowers students to contribute to solutions that benefit not only their local communities but also the world at large.

Encouraging Innovation and Creativity

GIS technology encourages innovation and creativity by providing students with the tools to explore new ideas and solutions. The ability to visualize data in dynamic ways opens up new possibilities for research and problem-solving. Students can experiment with different approaches, test hypotheses, and develop innovative solutions to complex challenges. This creative problem-solving mindset is invaluable in today’s rapidly changing world, where traditional approaches may no longer suffice.

Education is the key to empowering the next generation to navigate and shape the future. Integrating GIS into education at all levels provides students with the skills, knowledge, and values needed to address global challenges and create a sustainable and equitable world. Programs like the Geospatial Semester at James Madison University and initiatives supported by Esri demonstrate the transformative potential of GIS in education. By fostering spatial thinking, real-world applications, and community engagement, GIS prepares students to become informed, responsible, and innovative global citizens. As we look to the future, it is essential to continue expanding the role of GIS in education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to lead and thrive in a complex and interconnected world.

Jeff Kerby: Visualizing Change in the Arctic

The Arctic, a region renowned for its stark beauty and extreme conditions, is undergoing rapid transformations due to climate change. Jeff Kerby, a National Geographic Explorer and geographer, has dedicated his work to understanding these changes through the lens of photography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). At the 2024 ESRI User Conference, Kerby shared his insights and experiences, highlighting the critical role of visual storytelling and GIS in documenting and addressing the impacts of climate change in the Arctic. This article delves into Kerby’s presentation, exploring how his work combines science, art, and technology to visualize change in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions.

The Arctic: A Region in Transition

The Arctic is warming at four times the rate of the rest of the planet, leading to profound changes in its ecosystems and landscapes. This rapid warming affects not only the physical environment but also the communities and wildlife that depend on it. Kerby’s work in the Arctic focuses on capturing these changes and understanding their broader implications.

Seasonality and Carbon Dynamics

One of the most significant aspects of the Arctic’s transformation is the alteration of its seasonal rhythms. The brief but intense Arctic summer triggers a massive intake of carbon by plants, creating a green burst that is visible from space. However, as the region warms, these dynamics are changing. Permafrost, the frozen ground that underlies much of the Arctic, is thawing, releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere. Kerby’s research emphasizes the importance of understanding these changes, as they have far-reaching consequences for global climate patterns.

The Greening of the Arctic

Kerby’s work highlights the phenomenon known as the “greening of the Arctic,” where areas that were once barren or sparsely vegetated are now becoming covered with shrubs and other vegetation. This greening has complex implications for the Arctic’s carbon balance, radiation dynamics, and overall ecosystem health. Through his photography and GIS analyses, Kerby documents these changes, providing a visual and scientific record that can inform future research and policy decisions.

Combining Photography and GIS: A Powerful Tool for Change

Kerby’s unique approach combines the artistic power of photography with the analytical capabilities of GIS, creating a compelling narrative that brings scientific data to life. This combination allows for a deeper understanding of the Arctic’s transformation and helps communicate the urgency of these changes to a broader audience.

Capturing Baselines and Changes

In his presentation, Kerby discussed the importance of establishing baselines to measure change over time. By capturing high-resolution images and using GIS to analyze these photos, he creates detailed records of specific locations. These records can be revisited in the future to assess how the landscape has evolved. For instance, Kerby described his return to a site in West Greenland after 15 years, where he found that the once grassy area had transformed into a dense shrubland. Such observations are crucial for understanding the pace and nature of Arctic changes.

Digital Twins and Immersive Experiences

Kerby also explored the concept of creating digital twins—highly detailed, virtual replicas of real-world locations. These digital twins can be used for a variety of purposes, from scientific analysis to public education. One of his notable projects involved creating a digital twin of Herschel Island in northwest Canada. This island, with its rich human history and significant environmental changes, served as a perfect case study. By using drone imagery and GIS, Kerby and his team developed an immersive virtual environment that allows users to explore the island’s past, present, and projected future.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

Kerby’s projects often involve collaboration with local communities and other researchers. He emphasized the importance of integrating local knowledge and perspectives into scientific research. For example, his work on Herschel Island included input from the Inuvialuit community, who have lived in the region for generations. This collaborative approach not only enriches the research but also ensures that the findings are relevant and beneficial to those most affected by the changes.

The Impact of Visual Storytelling

Kerby’s photography does more than document scientific data; it tells a story that resonates with people on an emotional level. By capturing the stark beauty of the Arctic and the dramatic changes occurring there, his images raise awareness and inspire action.

From Fieldwork to Policy Influence

Kerby’s images and GIS analyses have been used to inform policy discussions and public awareness campaigns. His work has been featured in National Geographic and presented at global forums such as the World Economic Forum in Davos. These platforms amplify the impact of his research, reaching decision-makers and the general public alike.

Educational Outreach

Kerby is also passionate about using his work to educate the next generation. He collaborates with schools and universities to bring the Arctic’s story to students, encouraging them to explore and address environmental challenges. By providing access to his digital twins and photographic records, Kerby enables educators to create immersive and engaging learning experiences.

Looking to the Future

As climate change continues to reshape the Arctic, Kerby’s work highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and adaptive strategies. The combination of photography and GIS offers a powerful toolset for understanding and addressing these changes.

Expanding the Use of Digital Twins

Kerby envisions expanding the use of digital twins to other vulnerable regions, creating a global network of virtual environments that can be used for research, education, and policy development. These digital twins can serve as living records, continuously updated to reflect the latest data and observations.

Leveraging Community Science

Kerby encourages the use of community science initiatives, where local residents and amateur scientists contribute to data collection. By involving more people in monitoring and documenting environmental changes, these initiatives can expand the scope and depth of our understanding.

Jeff Kerby’s work at the intersection of photography and GIS provides a compelling example of how visual storytelling and scientific analysis can combine to address one of the most pressing issues of our time: climate change in the Arctic. Through his detailed documentation and innovative use of technology, Kerby not only enhances our understanding of the Arctic’s transformation but also inspires action to protect this critical region. As we look to the future, the continued integration of GIS and visual storytelling will be essential in empowering communities, informing policy, and ultimately, driving global sustainability.

Conclusion: A Unified Vision for the Future

The 2024 ESRI User Conference plenary sessions showcased the transformative power of GIS in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. From urban planning and climate resilience to education and global sustainability, GIS provides the tools and insights needed to create a more just, sustainable, and connected world.

As Amina Mohammed aptly put it, “We cannot continue to solve 21st-century challenges with 20th-century tools.” The conference underscored that with GIS, we have the means to envision and build a better future, uniting our world through the power of geospatial technology.

Tags: Esri User Conference, Plenary

Category: Esri

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