How Satellite Data is Changing the Game: Frontierra’s Take on Deforestation, EUDR, and TNFD

In this episode of Earth Central, host Konstantinos welcomes Lewis Rattray, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Frontierra, to explore the exciting world of satellite technology, nature-related risks, and how businesses are navigating sustainability challenges.

Lewis takes us through Frontierra’s journey from its inception to becoming a leading consultancy that uses satellite data to monitor deforestation and environmental risks. We discuss how satellite monitoring is revolutionizing industries, helping companies manage their impacts on nature, and empowering them to act quickly on environmental challenges.

Lewis sheds light on how Frontierra’s work with TNFD (Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures) pilot projects in Latin America and the evolving landscape of biodiversity and nature-related assessments are shaping global sustainability practices.

Key Topics Covered:

• Satellite Technology for Environmental Monitoring:Discover how satellite technology is helping businesses in industries like finance and agriculture identify and mitigate nature-related risks. From monitoring vast supply chains to tracking deforestation, satellite data is a game-changer in sustainability efforts.

• TNFD Pilot Projects in Latin America:Lewis discusses Frontierra’s involvement in TNFD pilot projects with financial institutions in Colombia and Brazil. These projects are helping shape how companies assess and report on nature-related risks, setting new standards for environmental accountability.

• Real-Time Satellite Monitoring – The Future:We explore the potential of real-time satellite monitoring, which could revolutionize how industries respond to environmental changes. Luis explains the challenges of making this technology widely accessible and affordable, but emphasizes its future importance, especially for preventing deforestation.

• Challenges in Working with Remote Farmers and Smallholders:Sustainability efforts often face hurdles in remote areas, where farmers may lack the technology to monitor their plots. Luis highlights the difficulties and potential solutions in helping smallholder farmers engage with sustainability programs, particularly under the EUDR (European Deforestation Regulation).