The role of geospatial training in empowering women for environmental decision-making polices

Abstract

Women significantly contribute to the development in geospatial technologies and their applications for remote sensing, showing scientific excellence and innovative approaches in different environmental domains. This research article presents a review of the contribution of women to geospatial studies and their potential to further the course of sustainable development by way of a critical literature review and capacity-building analysis. The results show that women researchers lead in introducing new methodologies on geospatial technologies, from developing new methods for monitoring with drones to further developing machine learning applications in environmental assessment. Women-led research covers important topics in wetland monitoring, studies of the effects of climate change, water quality management, and precision agriculture. These contributions contribute directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly SDG5 (Gender Equality) and SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). This study concludes that participation by women in geospatial science is highly necessary in solving complex problems of the environment with divergent viewpoints and their solutions. Further recommendations include an increase in targeted training, the use of inclusive approaches in research, the provision of mentorship opportunities, and integrating the leadership of women into environmental policy frameworks in view of achieving sustainable development goals.