Remote sensing innovation: progressing sustainability goals and expanding insurability

Applications of geospatial and earth observation sensor data from satellites, aircraft and drones are expanding rapidly. New business models are emerging as a broad range of solutions and services enabled by such data are unlocked across industries. The advent of start-ups taking advantage of better technology and also substantial reductions in the cost of launching satellites, will make such services much more accessible beyond military and government.

Importantly, high resolution (spatial and temporal) earth observation data can quickly and frequently reveal on-ground changes, and the technology can help progress the UNʼs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This report estimates that at least 17% of the 231 SDG indicators could benefit either directly or indirectly from the use of earth-observation data. 

The trends can have far reaching implications for insurers and insureds too. Remote sensing will enable new markets and risk pools, and ease existing processes such as claims assessment and, in time, underwriting and risk monitoring. Download the report to find out more.