The Role Of Multilateral Development Banks In Mainstreaming The Use Of Space And Geospatial Technologies For Sustainable Development

The potential of space and geospatial technologies (SGTs) for sustainable development is enormous. In particular, all Sustainable Development Goals can be approached though SGTs utilisation, making it a key area of interest for multilateral development banks (MDBs). This article argues that development banks have the influence and responsibility to mainstream the use of SGTs for sustainable development. It first presents the current utilisation of such technologies before introducing two specific directions MDBs should follow, namely the development of a space infrastructure and the support to the emerging private space sector. The recommendations made in this article are based on a pragmatic analysis of the potential of SGTs and on the actual scope of MDBs' activities. They can be easily implemented, without requiring significant structural or strategic change for any of the major existing MDBs.