Organizations in various industries are leveraging data in innovative ways to drive business outcomes. While businesses typically use available data, alternative data sources are key to uncovering economic and environmental insights. Advanced technologies like AI, ML, deep learning, and natural-language processing are accelerating innovation by effectively harnessing traditional and alternative data. Computer vision applied to alternative data from satellites is a clear example of this innovation. Satellites provide valuable insights on urban growth, air pollution, and water stress, which have macroeconomic and environmental implications. Robust models are crucial for obtaining reliable computer-vision insights. Using satellite data, investors can close the gaps in ESG reporting and identify assets at risk. Satellite data can also provide accurate information in countries with limited transparency. Overall, the use of satellite data and computer vision is transforming how we understand and address economic and environmental challenges.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Organizations harnessing data in new ways | Using alternative data sources | Increased use of alternative data in uncovering insights | Quest for greater insights and business outcomes |
| Proactive approach to uncovering economic and environmental insights | Shifting from reactive to proactive approach | More robust ESG reporting and data, focus on environmental impact | Increased scrutiny around sustainability practices and environmental impact |
| Increasing use of advanced tools and technologies | Accelerating innovation in every realm | More effective use of traditional and alternative data | Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, and natural-language processing |
| Growing potential of computer vision with satellite data | Leveraging satellite data for insights | Improved tracking of human activity, environmental effects | More satellites being launched, advancements in computer vision technology |
| Demand for more robust ESG reporting and data | Increasing focus on ESG practices | More comprehensive ESG reporting and clearer view of environmental impact | Increased stakeholder demand and scrutiny around sustainability practices |
| Various types of satellite data and their usefulness | Utilizing different satellite data types | Improved understanding and tracking of macroeconomic insights | Different satellites provide optical imagery, track pollutants, and provide thermal images |
| Integration of satellite data with macroeconomic indicators | Enhancing insights into industrial activity | More accurate assessment of industrial and construction activity | Verifying features indicating increased activity and incorporating insights from alternative data |
| Application of satellite data for ESG investment | Closing data gaps in ESG rating and reporting | Granular insights for risk assessment and verification of ESG ratings | Cross-checking self-declared ESG ratings, tracking deforestation and air pollution |
| Use of satellite data to show the real picture | Providing accurate economic and environmental information | Transparency and comparative analysis of ecosystems and economies | Revealing the true stories behind countries and organizations |
| Increasing importance of robust model construction | Ensuring reliable insights from satellite data | Accurate and validated computer-vision models for data processing | Incorporating key information, verification through enrichment steps |