3 powerful ways GIS can help combat climate change

The number of cases where Geographical Information Systems (GIS) can assist in decision making around climate change are numerous. In this article, 3 different examples are discussed. It is intended as a source of inspiration for Finance, IT and ESG managers to invest in GIS capabilities.

1. Maximizing ESG Reporting with GIS Technology Under CSRD

ESG reporting, now a requirement under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), demands that companies disclose their environmental, social, and governance impacts. For IT and ESG managers, leveraging Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can enhance reporting accuracy and decision-making.

The European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), part of the CSRD, require companies to report on critical environmental data, including biodiversity, climate impact, and resource usage. GIS technology allows for the visualization of these data points, providing clear and actionable insights. For example, a company can use GIS to map its carbon footprint across various locations, identifying areas where emissions can be reduced.

Incorporating GIS into ESG reporting not only helps companies comply with CSRD but also turns data into a strategic asset for sustainable management. By visualizing complex data, companies can make informed decisions that support both compliance and long-term sustainability goals.

OpenGHGMap allows people from across Europe to see what the carbon dioxide emissions are like in their cities and towns. The idea is to give municipalities tools that will help them identify hotspots as a way to implement emissions cuts.

2. Implementing the 3-30-300 Rule with GIS for Greener Cities

Three is not just a magical number, it is the foundation for the rule invented by prof. dr. Cecil Konijnendijk of Unversity of British Colombia. The 3-30-300 rule, embraced by Vlaamse Groennorm and other European green initiatives, aims to enhance urban living.

The 3-30-300 Rule consists of three components:

3 = ensuring 3 trees are visible from every home
30 = 30% tree canopy and shrubs (or climate green) should be the minimum cover per neighborhood.
300 = every household should have a maximum of 300 meters distance to the nearest green space.

GIS technology is crucial in visualizing and planning these green spaces, ensuring cities meet these standards efficiently. Cobra, a Dutch organisation, is providing solutions for cities to monitor the rule performance for their city.

3. Enhance Hazard Risk Forecasting for New Investments with GIS

Companies and Cities, when investing in a new building or product line for instance, will need to assess hazard risk, for instance around flooding, pollution, toxic waste, explosions, fires, etc… This became increasingly important in the light of CSRD and the ESG reporting.

An example: GIS enables precise mapping of flood-prone areas, aiding in the creation of detailed risk assessments. It allows companies to be well-informed and implement proactive measures to safeguard assets and infrastructure. Next to that, it also allows credit investors and government bodies to make informed decisions about new investments dossiers they receive from such companies.

By integrating GIS, cities and companies can effectively predict, visualize, and respond to natural hazards, ensuring better safety and compliance with regulations.

GeoWeave provides environmental and agricultural GIS solutions by combining geospatial data with digital expertise and business intelligence. We seamlessly integrate existing data components from our partners to create clear, cohesive solutions.

1. Maximizing ESG Reporting with GIS Technology Under CSRD

2. Implementing the 3-30-300 Rule with GIS for Greener Cities

3. Enhance Hazard Risk Forecasting for New Investments with GIS

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