Presentation short abstract

Resource inequalities and power dynamics influence if and how different actors can use EO data. Increased use of EO data may perpetuate disempowerment of local communities through exclusion of alternative information sources, and loss of control over data and the resulting narratives and decisions.

Presentation long abstract

The rapid adoption of earth observation data in the last decade has been met with minimal consideration of how access to and use of this data intersects with underlying power dynamics. In the Just Earth Observation for Conservation project, we are exploring what EO data is being used, how, and by whom in the Mount Kenya Landscape; the challenges local actors have experienced in working with EO data; and how they are overcoming them. We have found financial, resource, and capacity inequalities hinder the ability of some organisations in the landscape to use EO to its full potential; and communities living in the landscape may have limited participation or control over the collection, ownership, and application of EO data. There is a clear pattern where research and conservation activities drawing on the most sophisticated technology and data are led by international actors, with agendas driven by external priorities, not necessarily local, practical needs. As a consequence, the increased use of EO data may be perpetuating the disempowerment of locals in the name of conservation, through exclusion or devaluing of alternative data and ways of knowing, and loss of control over data and the resulting narratives and decisions. We are looking to work with local actors toco-develop better ways of working with and governing EO data; including facilitating collaboration across landscapes and up and down data value chains, to develop data products which are fit for purpose, accessible, and equitable, and are used alongside other forms of data.