Regional recruiting offices for European Earth Observation
The European EO programme was formerly known as Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) and is now called Copernicus. It was established to provide reliable and timely environmental information to ensure the well-being and security of future generations. Data provided includes changes in climate, the influence of human activities on these and how they affect daily living. As such, Copernicus/GMES can positively influence decisions on the part of policymakers, businesses and even the average citizen. In order to strengthen regional involvement in Copernicus/GMES, the EU-funded project 'Downstream observatory organised by regions active in space - network' (DORIS_NET) established a network of RCOs. The RCOs are poised to raise awareness, recruit participation and facilitate the use of Copernicus/GMES services by regional players in several ways. DORIS_NET partners created the DORIS_NET Regional User and Service Inventory that will be continuously updated to link the downstream service side with the regional demand side. RCOs use it to provide information about Copernicus/GMES, connect suppliers with end-users, and keep track of the regional services offered and new products available. In addition, RCOs promote partnerships and technology transfer from research projects into new services, applications and patents. Within the scope of the project, the Regional Inventory was used to create a downstream services catalogue, a report on the needs of regional users and recommendations for the development of new services. It also informed recommendations to other regions wishing to join the network as well as to Copernicus/GMES governing bodies regarding a regional perspective in strategic development. European pilot regions have tested the network, its tools and governance, and DORIS_Net is now open to all regions wishing to join. EO will soon benefit from the strength in numbers facilitated by continuously expanding participation. The network will facilitate effective cooperation, ensuring that the supply of its services meets end-users demand, helping stakeholders to protect the environment and global security.