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We are now facing difficulties on the Earth. Problems that were caused by ourselves are forcing us to change
our lifestyles and living environments. And if we are facing these problems now, what might we be facing in
30 years’ time?
Presently, there are many global issues such as shortage of water resources, desertification, and increasing
natural disasters, which seriously impact our community. To overcome such problems and take appropriate
measures against them, it is necessary for many countries to cooperate and ensure the establishment of
comprehensive, coordinated and sustained Earth observation, enabling accurate policy decisions based on
correct information.
The Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) is working toward a solution for the Earth’s
environmental issues, which is one of its current priorities for sustainable growth and development.
Contributing to the GEOSS implementation, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has Earth
observation programmes such as disaster and crisis monitoring, as well as water cycle and climate change
observation, to contribute towards a safe and secure society.
The issue of climate change is no longer a question; it is a reality. I hope that GEOSS will give high priority
to this issue, which threatens people around the world. GEOSS could play a critical role here.
GEOSS should also pay attention to the many regional issues, and the need for regional cooperation –
GEOSS can lend valuable support to regional Earth observations.
JAXA promotes the Sentinel Asia Project with disaster prevention organizations and space agencies in the
Asia Pacific region to share disaster information. I believe that the project can contribute to solving local
issues in the region.
Japan has been and will be calling on other non-member countries to join GEO. GEOSS is a very timely
and very important programme for the Earth’s environment. JAXA is looking forward to working for this
critical programme.
Dr Keiji Tachikawa
President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
STATEMENT FROM DR KEIJI TACHIKAWA,
PRESIDENT OF THE JAPAN AEROSPACE EXPLORATION AGENCY