Over the past decade, space-based technology has revolutionized how we monitor and manage forests worldwide. Biomass data based on Earth Observation (EO) present an opportunity to further improve these efforts; however, we first must ensure the technology is operationally ready to be used by countries in their national forest monitoring systems (NFMSs) and associated emission measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) procedures. Fundamental to this effort is a solid comprehension of the opportunities presented by biomass maps, as well as their current limitations.

To further our understanding, the Global Forest Observations Initiative (GFOI) Research and Development (R&D) and Methods and Guidance (MGD) Components organized the workshop "Informed use of biomass maps in MRV procedures" from 23 to 25 October 2024 in Potsdam, Germany. This three-day event gathered experts from around the globe to discuss the application of space-based biomass maps for monitoring aboveground forest biomass and carbon stocks.

Led by GFOI’s R&D Component as hosted by the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ-Potsdam) with funding from the European Space Agency (ESA), the workshop aimed to synthesize the GFOI community’s understanding of the readiness and potential role of biomass maps in countries’ MRV processes. Participants had the opportunity to review the findings from examples of the implementation of biomass maps in tropical countries to date. Furthermore, the attendees considered what guidance the GFOI community can develop to help countries improve the understanding of biomass maps and their potential use in NFMSs and associated MRV processes.

The power of biomass maps

Recent advancements in remote sensing technology have significantly expanded the availability of biomass map products. These products, such as the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and ESA’s Climate Change Initiative (CCI), provide detailed global biomass estimates that can improve understanding of the carbon dynamics of forests and other land uses, ultimately informing action on climate change through MRV systems. These systems are crucial for countries to monitor their forests and contribute to global greenhouse gas inventories, as required by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Despite the potential of biomass maps, many countries are still grappling with how best to integrate these new tools into their MRV systems. The workshop in Potsdam aimed to address this challenge by bringing together MRV specialists, forest monitoring teams and biomass map producers. Discussions centered on using biomass maps to meet national reporting standards and integrating them with other data sources, such as national forest inventories (NFIs).

Global insights and collaboration: workshop highlights

Leading experts from organizations in partnership with the GFOI provided in-depth presentations on the current state of biomass maps and their potential role in national forest monitoring. Delegates from Mozambique, Peru and the Philippines shared their experiences and challenges with utilizing biomass maps for MRV. These case studies provided valuable, real-world perspectives on the benefits and barriers to implementation. Moreover, these sessions allowed for deep dives into issues like data integration, stratification and carbon pool estimations.

A survey was recently disseminated to gather insights into the past challenges, current use and future expectations of EO-based biomass estimates. The results were instrumental to informing key discussions at the workshop, helping to shape the essential guidance and recommendations for countries to integrate these maps into NFMSs and MRV procedures.

Overall, the workshop achieved three primary objectives:

• Perspectives on forest biomass estimations: The latest insights into the needs for improved forest biomass estimations, particularly for tropical countries, were highlighted.
• Biomass map guidance for MRV: Participants worked towards drafting guidance for the integration of biomass maps in MRV systems, drawing from the GFOI’s ongoing research.
• Planning for the future: A roadmap was created for future activities by setting deadlines and assigning responsibilities for the finalization of guidance documents to ensure that the gained research and insights will support ongoing country engagement.

Shaping the future of forest monitoring

The shared knowledge and collaborative discussions over the three-day workshop are expected to drive the development of more robust, practical and standardized approaches to using biomass maps in national forest monitoring efforts, including through future GFOI guidance. Through continued efforts like this workshop, the GFOI and its partners are empowering countries to take full advantage of space-based technologies to meet their climate goals, improve forest management and contribute to the global fight against deforestation.