SDG 1 - No Poverty

SDG 1

End poverty in all its forms everywhere

While global poverty rates have been cut by more than half since 2000, one in ten people in developing regions are still living with their families on less than the international poverty line of US$1.90 a day, and there are millions more who make little more than this daily amount. Significant progress has been made in many countries within Eastern and Southeastern Asia, but up to 42% of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa continues to live below the poverty line.

Poverty is more than the lack of income and resources to ensure a sustainable livelihood. Its manifestations include hunger and malnutrition, limited access to education and other basic services, social discrimination and exclusion as well as the lack of participation in decision-making.

Economic growth must be inclusive to provide sustainable jobs and promote equality. Social protection systems need to be implemented to help alleviate the suffering of disaster-prone countries and provide support in the face of great economic risks. These systems will help strengthen responses by afflicted populations to unexpected economic losses during disasters and will eventually help to end extreme poverty in the most impoverished areas.

Facts and Figures

  • 783 million people live below the international poverty line of US$1.90 a day
  • In 2016, almost 10 per cent of the world’s workers live with their families on less than US$1.90 per person per day
  • Globally, there are 122 women aged 25 to 34 living in extreme poverty for every 100 men of the same age group.
  • Most people living below the poverty line belong to two regions: Southern Asia and sub-Saharan Africa
  • High poverty rates are often found in small, fragile and conflict-affected countries
  • One in four children under age five in the world has inadequate height for his or her age
  • As of 2016, only 45% of the world’s population were effectively covered by at least one social protection cash benefit.
  • In 2017, economic losses due to disasters, including three major hurricanes in the USA and the Caribbean, were estimated at over $300 billion.

Space-based Technologies for SDG 1

Climate-related extreme events and other disasters can plunge communities into poverty. Space-based technologies can contribute to all phases of the disaster management cycle, including prevention, preparedness, early warning, response and reconstruction. Space-based technologies can contribute to all phases of the disaster management cycle, including prevention, preparedness, early warning, response and reconstruction. UNOOSA helps vulnerable communities access space technology to build their resilience and reduce their exposure and vulnerability to environmental shocks and disasters. Read more here.

SDG 1 Targets

Learn more about the SDGs

Related Content

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Can space technologies help improve WASH provision in camps and informal settlements?

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Est ce que les Technologies Spatiales Peuvent Améliorer les Provisions WASH dans les Camps et Quartiers Informels

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Interview with Margherita Bruscolini, Geospatial & Earth Scientist, Drone Pilot at RSS-Hydro

Margherita is an interdisciplinary Earth scientist and drone pilot with a background in geologic and environmental sciences. She has international experience working in fields such as Earth Observation (EO), remote sensing, drones & geospatial data analysis applied to the environmental and humanitarian sectors, sustainability and climate change. Margherita is passionate about natural and climate-related technologies that can be used to develop sustainable and long-lasting solutions. She is working for a more inclusive world (Women in Geospatial+), without any sort of geographical or social barriers. Keywords: Science communication, Climate Change, STEM, inclusivity, sustainability, nature, hydrosphere, hydrology, water risks, Earth Observation (EO), satellite data, flood modeling, vulnerability, resilience, lifelong learning  Region/Country mentioned: Temperate climates, Arid climates, Luxembourg, Niger  Relevant SDG targets: 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 17  

Interview with Margherita Bruscolini, Geospatial & Earth Scientist, Drone Pilot at RSS-Hydro

Margherita is an interdisciplinary Earth scientist and drone pilot with a background in geologic and environmental sciences. She has international experience working in fields such as Earth Observation (EO), remote sensing, drones & geospatial data analysis applied to the environmental and humanitarian sectors, sustainability and climate change. Margherita is passionate about natural and climate-related technologies that can be used to develop sustainable and long-lasting solutions. She is working for a more inclusive world (Women in Geospatial+), without any sort of geographical or social barriers. Keywords: Science communication, Climate Change, STEM, inclusivity, sustainability, nature, hydrosphere, hydrology, water risks, Earth Observation (EO), satellite data, flood modeling, vulnerability, resilience, lifelong learning  Region/Country mentioned: Temperate climates, Arid climates, Luxembourg, Niger  Relevant SDG targets: 1, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 17  

Event

Local Perspectives Case Studies

Project / Mission / Initiative / Community Portal

Space-Enabled Modeling of the Niger River to Enhance Regional Water Resources Management

River and floodplain landscapes are constantly undergoing change due to natural and manmade processes putting pressure on fluvial systems, such as reservoirs, intensive agriculture, high-impact repetitive droughts and floods and the overall effects of climate change. All these bring about considerable changes, some of which irreversibly degrade ecosystem services, local economies and impact lives, particularly in sensitive transitional zones such as the Sahel region in Africa and its Niger River Basin (NRB).

In-Service ICT Training for Environmental Professionals

Decision-makers are faced with the constant challenge of maintaining access to and understanding new technologies and data, as information and communication technologies (ICTs) are constantly evolving and as more and more data is becoming available. Despite continually improving technologies, informed decision-making is being hindered by inadequate attention to enabling conditions, e.g. a lack of in-service education and professional training for decision-makers.

Stakeholder

Remote Sensing, GIS and Climatic Research Lab, University of the Punjab

The emerging demand of GIS and Space Applications for Climate Change studies for the socio-economic development of Pakistan along with Government of Pakistan Vision 2025, Space Vision 2047 of National Space Agency of Pakistan, and achievement of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) impelled the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC) to establish Remote Sensing, GIS and Climatic Research Lab (RSGCRL) at University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.

The United Nations University Institute on Comparative Regional Integration Studies (UNU-CRIS)

The United Nations University Institute on Comparative Regional Integration Studies (UNU-CRIS) is a research and training institute of the United Nations University. UNU is a global network of institutes and programs engaged in research and capacity development to support the universal goals of the UN. It brings together leading scholars from around the world with a view to generate strong and innovative knowledge on how to tackle pressing global problems. UNU-CRIS focuses on the study of processes of global cooperation and regional integration and their implications.

Software/Tool/(Web-)App

mWater

mWater is an operating system for digital governance used by governments, civil society organizations, and water and sanitation service providers in over 190 countries. The platform's free features allow users to collect data using smartphones, bring in data from Earth observations and other sources, and create effective analytics and visualizations to help prioritize interventions. mWater is designed to facilitate collaboration and longitudinal monitoring of individual pieces of infrastructure as well as entire water systems.

mWater

mWater is an operating system for digital governance used by governments, civil society organizations, and water and sanitation service providers in over 190 countries. The platform's free features allow users to collect data using smartphones, bring in data from Earth observations and other sources, and create effective analytics and visualizations to help prioritize interventions. mWater is designed to facilitate collaboration and longitudinal monitoring of individual pieces of infrastructure as well as entire water systems.

mWater

mWater is an operating system for digital governance used by governments, civil society organizations, and water and sanitation service providers in over 190 countries. The platform's free features allow users to collect data using smartphones, bring in data from Earth observations and other sources, and create effective analytics and visualizations to help prioritize interventions. mWater is designed to facilitate collaboration and longitudinal monitoring of individual pieces of infrastructure as well as entire water systems.

Space-based Solution

Addressed challenge(s)

The disappearance of Lake Ol’ Bolossat: a threat to biodiversity, livelihoods and water security in central Kenya

Collaborating actors (stakeholders, professionals, young professionals or Indigenous voices)
Suggested solution

To establish an integrated monitoring and decision-support system that uses Earth Observation data and machine learning to track the status of Lake Ol' Bolossat, enabling evidence-based conservation and sustainable development actions.

Requirements

Data

Below is a table showing the data requirements and sources.

Data sourceUse casePeriod
JRC GSWHistorical water extents1984 - 2023
Sentinel-1 SARWater extent during cloud-cover seasons2014 - present
Sentinel-2 2 MSIHabitat classification, NDVI, MNDWI, NDBI2015 - present
MODISNDVI/ET anomalies and drought indicators2000 - present
Rainfall and climate (CHIRPS/ERA5)Climate trend correlation with hydrological changes1984 - present
Population/Human settlement (WorldPop, GHSL)Land use pressure mapping2000 - present
Field surveys and local NGO dataValidation and community-level observationsAs available

Software

The analysis is being done using open-source platforms and software: Google Earth Engine and QGIS.

To access Google Earth Engine, one needs a Google account that will be linked to the platform link. If you are new to the platform, create an account, and you can start using it. If you already have an account, just sign in and be directed to the code editor. If you are new to the software, you can access the training manual here.

To access QGIS, you need to download it as it is a software, link. If you are new to the software, you can access the training manual here.

Physical

  1. Establishment of Ground Monitoring Stations
  • Purpose: To validate satellite data and collect real-time, on-the-ground water level, rainfall, and biodiversity observations.
  • Components: Water gauges, weather sensors, camera traps for biodiversity, and simple soil moisture probes.

 

  1. Community Information Boards or Digital Kiosks
  • Purpose: To display maps, water level trends, and habitat updates to residents in a simplified, accessible format.
  • Location: Strategic points around the lake (e.g., near schools, water collection points, community centers).

 

  1. Buffer Zone Demarcation and Fencing
  • Purpose: To physically protect critical wetland habitats and prevent encroachment or grazing in sensitive areas.
  • Details: Fencing or natural barriers like vegetation planting along designated riparian zones.

 

  1. Construction of a Local Conservation and Data Hub
  • Purpose: To provide a space for community meetings, training sessions, citizen science coordination, and storing field equipment.
  • Location: Ideally within a local government or NGO compound near the lake.

 

  1. Rehabilitation of Degraded Wetlands
  • Purpose: Restore areas where the lakebed or surrounding wetlands have been severely altered.
  • Methods: Planting of indigenous wetland vegetation, removal of invasive species, and controlled re-wetting.

 

  1. Water Resource Management Infrastructure
  • Purpose: To improve the regulation and sustainable use of the lake's water.
  • Examples: Controlled inflow/outflow channels, community-led irrigation management systems, water pans for livestock to reduce direct lake access.

 

  1. Signage and Protected Area Boundary Markers
  • Purpose: To raise awareness of Lake Ol’ Bolossat’s legal protection status and to visually communicate boundaries to land users.
  • Materials: Durable signs, educational posters, and protected area plaques.

 

  1. Solar-Powered Connectivity Units (Optional but strategic)
  • Purpose: For uplinking field sensor data or enabling access to the online dashboard in remote locations.
  • Components: Solar panels, GSM routers, rugged tablets or data loggers.

Outline steps for a solution

Phase 1: Planning and Stakeholder Engagement – To do

The first phase involves defining the objectives of the monitoring system and identifying measurable success indicators aligned with conservation priorities and local needs. This is followed by engaging key stakeholders such as the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Water Resources Authority (WRA), Nyandarua County Government, and local community-based organizations. Stakeholder consultations are critical for gathering input on data needs, identifying decision-making gaps, and ensuring buy-in from both policy actors and community leaders. A situational analysis should be conducted to map existing infrastructure, technical capacity, internet access, and human resources available on the ground, helping to identify opportunities and constraints for implementation.

Phase 2: Data Collection and System Design – In progress

In this phase, a comprehensive monitoring framework is developed, specifying the key indicators to be tracked, such as seasonal water extent, land cover transitions, and flood-prone zones. Relevant Earth observation datasets are selected, including Sentinel-1 SAR for water extent, Sentinel-2 for habitat classification, JRC Global Surface Water for historical trends, and CHIRPS for rainfall data. A prototype dashboard is developed using Google Earth Engine, visualizing these datasets through maps, time series graphs, and interactive overlays. Simultaneously, field validation activities are conducted to ground-truth satellite-derived maps. This includes collecting GPS points, photos, and observations on vegetation, land use, and visible signs of degradation, ensuring the remote sensing outputs are accurate and contextually relevant.

Phase 3: System Testing and Expansion – To do

Once the prototype is ready, it is tested with stakeholders through pilot sessions and community workshops. These engagements are used to collect feedback on the dashboard’s usability, relevance, and user experience, particularly for non-technical audiences. Revisions are made to improve clarity, layer toggling, labelling, and interpretability. In parallel, basic physical interventions begin, such as the installation of simple water gauges, informational signboards, and boundary markers for conservation zones. These elements help translate digital insights into tangible tools for the community. Plans for expanding field infrastructure, such as creating buffer zones or establishing a local conservation hub, are also explored during this phase.

Phase 4: Deployment and Knowledge Sharing – In progress

Following successful pilot testing and system refinement, the full monitoring platform is deployed on a publicly accessible hosting environment, such as Firebase, Earth Engine Apps, or a custom-built website. The platform is shared with agencies and conservation partners, accompanied by a rollout plan that includes formal training sessions. These capacity-building workshops are designed to empower users, ranging from government officers to youth groups, with the skills to interpret dashboard outputs and use the data in planning and response. User guides, translated materials, and offline summaries are provided to support long-term usability and local ownership.

Phase 5: Monitoring, Maintenance, and Scaling – To do

The final phase focuses on monitoring the performance and real-world impact of the system. Regular evaluations are conducted to assess usage, data accuracy, stakeholder engagement, and improvements in environmental decision-making. Lessons learned are used to refine system features, add new datasets, and introduce functionalities such as alert notifications or mobile-friendly access. The success of the Lake Ol’ Bolossat solution creates a foundation for scaling to other endangered wetlands across Kenya, such as Lakes Baringo, Naivasha, or Kanyaboli. Finally, the project contributes to the broader Space4Water and open science communities by publishing methods, code, and findings on platforms like GitHub and Earth Engine’s asset repository, ensuring transparency, replicability, and collaboration.

Results

The Lake Ol’ Bolossat monitoring system, currently at prototype stage, holds significant potential to transform how freshwater ecosystems are managed at local and national levels. By integrating satellite-derived water and habitat data into an accessible dashboard, the system aims to bridge the gap between Earth observation science and on-the-ground conservation action. Once implemented with key stakeholders and end users, the following impacts are anticipated:

  1. Support for Environmental Agencies and County Governments: The system could enhance the capacity of institutions such as the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Water Resources Authority (WRA), and the Nyandarua County Government by providing timely, location-specific data for decision-making on lake and wetland management.
  2. Early Warning for Hydrological and Ecological Risks: The dashboard could enable stakeholders to detect abnormal patterns in water extent, such as persistent shrinkage or sudden expansion, triggering early intervention to prevent ecological degradation or disaster impacts on nearby communities.
  3. Community Awareness and Engagement: By visualizing seasonal and long-term changes, the system can be used to build awareness among residents, farmers, and water users around Lake Ol’ Bolossat, empowering them to engage in sustainable practices and to advocate for the protection of the lake.
  4. Policy-Relevant Monitoring Tool: The platform can serve as a long-term environmental monitoring tool to support the implementation of wetland protection policies, local water catchment strategies, and integrated land use planning frameworks.
  5. Scalability to Other Freshwater Ecosystems: Once validated, the approach used at Lake Ol’ Bolossat can be adapted to other small inland water bodies across Kenya and East Africa, particularly those facing similar risks of drying, encroachment, or biodiversity loss.
  6. Alignment with Global and National Development Goals: The system supports Kenya’s contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
  • SDG 6: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation
  • SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
  • SDG 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and halt biodiversity loss
Related space-based solutions
Keywords (for the solution)
Climate Zone (addressed by the solution)
Habitat (addressed by the solution)
Region/Country (the solution was designed for, if any)
Relevant SDGs