Google Earth grows as environmental monitoring tool

By on February 3, 2015
Google Earth being used as an environmental monitoring tool. (Credit: Google)

Google Earth being used as an environmental monitoring tool. (Credit: Google)


Scientists across the globe want to use Google Earth to spot trouble areas, according to the New York Times. Imazon, a group of Brazilian scientists, first used the GIS tool to monitor deforestation in the Amazon. Prior to working with Google Earth, the group relied on their own monitoring equipment and satellites.

Google was impressed with their work and decided to assist them. Now, the company is is expanding its earth observing efforts into other programs like tracking illegal fishing activity and monitoring melting glaciers. Projects to track sea ice and provide images of fires globally are underway and are expected to be completed this year.

Top image: Google Earth being used as an environmental monitoring tool. (Credit: Google)

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