A Pragmatic Approach to Increase the Capacity of Developing Countries to Adapt and Develop Remote Sensing Technology

摘要

During the past two decades, data acquisition and supply have been the more dominant sectors of remote sensing technology. While many studies indicate that remotely sensed data provide cost effective and up to date information in managing Earth resources, use of the tremendous amount of already available data in meaningful applications has not reached its full potential. The growing interest in the developing countries for more efficient natural resources and environmental management is creating new demands for techniques such as remote sensing to provide accurate and up to date information. However, while new applications of remote sensing are being investigated and introduced to the market in the developed countries, many developing countries are still struggling with their constrained capacities to absorb this technology. This paper examines the existing barriers to the use of remote sensing technology in the context of developing countries and suggests a pragmatic approach in encouraging its successful acceptance and adaptation. It discusses the major economic, institutional /social and geographical aspects that need to be addressed in the appropriate introduction and use of this technology. It also looks at various ways of facilitating the evolution of practical applications beyond the 'research tool' stage in satisfying the national needs of Earth resource management of developing countries.