Key Takeaways:
- The European Space Agency (ESA) is offering funding for 6-month ‘Kick-Start’ studies related to nature-based solutions (NBS) applications.
- Funding covers 75% of the project cost, up to a maximum of €75,000 per contract, with the opportunity to develop larger-scale Demonstration Projects.
- Projects must utilize satellite data or space-based technologies such as Earth observation, satellite navigation, or satellite communications.
- Relevant topics include ecosystem restoration, urban resilience, and nature-related risks and opportunities.
- The application deadline for this funding opportunity is November 20, 2024.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is offering funding to teams interested in developing services related to Nature-based Solutions (NBS) through its ‘Kick-Start’ initiative. This opportunity is open to companies aiming to use satellite data or space-based technologies to create services that enhance the planning, implementation, and monitoring of NBS. The 6-month projects, funded at 75% by ESA, provide up to €75,000 per contract and may lead to larger-scale Demonstration Projects in the future.
The Challenge
Addressing global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and human health requires innovative, synergistic approaches. Nature-based Solutions (NBS) leverage ecosystems to address these issues, offering environmental and social co-benefits such as improved air and water quality, carbon storage, and resilience against climate extremes. With growing interest in NBS applications, the use of space-based data and technologies can support more efficient planning and monitoring of ecosystem services.
Topics of Relevance
Key areas where space-based technologies can play a role in advancing NBS include:
- Ecosystem Restoration: Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO) and satellite navigation (Satnav) can monitor biodiversity, plan restoration efforts, and assess ecosystem changes over time.
- Urban Resilience: Space-based technologies can support urban planning by integrating NBS into cities, helping manage stormwater, improve green spaces, and monitor biodiversity. Municipalities, urban planners, and construction companies are potential users.
- Nature-Related Risks and Disclosures: Services that support biodiversity finance, nature-related risk management, and disclosures can benefit from satellite data, especially for financial institutions and corporations.
Value of Space Technologies
The use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS/Satnav) enables precise geolocation for monitoring NBS, while Earth Observation (SatEO) can map ecosystems and assess the impact of NBS over time. Satellite Communications (Satcom) can connect IoT sensors to monitor environmental conditions in real-time, particularly in remote areas.
What We Offer
ESA provides 75% funding for selected projects, along with technical and commercial guidance, access to its network and partners, and the use of the ESA brand. The funding is intended to support the development of space-based services related to NBS.
How to Apply
To apply for this funding, teams must register on esa-star and submit a proposal before the November 20, 2024 deadline. Full application details and documents can be found on esa-star Publication once the Kick-Start opens on September 23, 2024.
Authorisation of Funding
Companies from ESA Member States, including Belgium, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and others, are eligible for this funding. Applicants from the United Kingdom, Germany, and Luxembourg do not need pre-authorization from their National Delegate.
Learn more about this opportunity here.
