Think Tank Advocates for Public-Private Partnerships in Geospatial Sector

A leading think tank has urged national mapping agencies to collaborate with the private sector to enhance space infrastructure and geospatial knowledge services. The report highlights successful collaborations and emphasizes integrating advanced technologies like AI and Machine Learning. It suggests that NMAs should become regulators and maintain standards in the sector.

A leading think tank has strongly advocated for collaboration between national mapping agencies (NMAs) and the private sector to enhance space infrastructure and geospatial knowledge services across various economic sectors.

The report, 'Evolving Role of National Mapping Agencies – Transitioning to Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure,' released by Geospatial World, highlights examples of successful collaborations in countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Singapore, and the US.

'Given the critical importance of space and geospatial solutions to national mission programmes, delays in these areas mean lost opportunities. Therefore, globally a mission-mode approach is needed to build space infrastructure and geospatial knowledge services through public-private partnerships,' the report states.

The document emphasizes that Geospatial Knowledge Infrastructure functions as a nervous system to efficiently and transparently measure, model, monitor, and manage natural resources, driving economic and sustainable growth.

The report also notes that integrating advanced technologies such as AI, Machine Learning, and Digital Twins into NMAs is crucial for enhancing data accuracy and expanding their roles in sectors like urban planning and environmental monitoring.

'Commercialisation through startups, investments, and innovation will continue to strengthen private sector participation, alongside government disinvestment from the commercial sector,' the report adds.

Sanjay Kumar, founder and CEO of Geospatial World, stated that national mapping agencies should gradually take on the role of regulators and standard-keepers for the geospatial sector.

(With inputs from agencies.)