RT null T1 The Global Terrestrial Observing System and the Convention to Combat Desertification K1 environmental agreement K1 environmental information K1 wetland K1 wildlife conservation K1 international trade K1 hazardous waste K1 convention K1 environmental convention K1 climate change K1 biological diversity K1 desertification YR 1997 FD 1997 LK https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/30188 UL https://wedocs.unep.org/handle/20.500.11822/30188 NO This technical report outlines the role of a global terrestrial observing system in supporting environmental convention secretariats. The document presents a strategy for aligning observational data with the evolving information needs of international conventions such as those on biodiversity, desertification, and climate change. It highlights how precise, harmonized, and spatially referenced data can support practical ecosystem management, policy formulation, and global assessments. Detailed recommendations underscore the importance of establishing a core set of sensitive variables, fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, building national capacity in developing countries, and ensuring quality assurance in data handling. The report also stresses the necessity of strategic outreach, funding mechanisms, and coordinated governance structures to operationalize the system effectively. DS UN Environment Document Repository RD Sep 24, 2026