The Pacific Islands GIS and Remote Sensing User Conference, taking place in Fiji this November, promises to be a landmark event for the region. With over 300 delegates expected from around the globe, it stands as one of the largest gatherings for Pacific Islanders focused on geospatial technologies. The conference provides a vital platform for networking among local users, international researchers, professionals, NGOs, private sector partners, and government officials. A highlight of the event is the participation of Prof. Lena Halounova, president of the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ISPRS), and serves as a recognition of the Pacific GIS and Remote Sensing Council (PGRSC).
Scheduled from November 24-27 at the University of the South Pacific’s Japan Pacific ICT Centre in Suva, the conference will feature approximately 70 presentations covering a wide array of topics. Key discussions will revolve around strategies for mitigating extreme weather, enhancing climate resilience, monitoring vulnerable coastlines, and sustainable agricultural practices. The event’s theme, ‘Building and Enhancing Geospatial Networks in the Pacific,’ reflects the urgent need to advance geospatial technology to tackle regional issues such as climate change.
Geospatial information and remote sensing technology are indispensable tools for development, addressing urban planning, rural and coastal management, agriculture, and environmental conservation. Such technologies are essential in understanding, predicting, and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.
This conference aligns with ongoing regional initiatives aimed at maximizing the benefits of geospatial technologies. Previous efforts led by figures like Paula Cirikiyasawa have underscored the role of these technologies in disaster risk reduction and sustainable development across the Pacific. However, the region continues to grapple with challenges such as limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and a scarcity of skilled personnel, which are necessary to harness the full potential of geospatial data.
The upcoming conference not only facilitates the exchange of technological advancements and strategies but also promotes a collaborative environment for exploring the significant role of geospatial technologies in building a resilient and sustainable future for the Pacific Islands amid climate challenges. By leveraging both traditional knowledge and modern technology, the event embodies a concerted effort to safeguard communities and enhance regional resilience.