The UK is set to build on its leading position in the provision of climate data and services, with a new strategy to increase the use of space technology in this growing market. The publication of the response to 'Space Innovation and Growth Strategy Recommendation 6' comes after approval of the strategy by the Space Leadership Council, which is co-chaired by David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science.

The global market for weather and climate
services is set to be £35.3 billion by 2015

The Centre for Carbon Measurement has been heavily engaged with and contributing to, the development of the strategy, which highlights the importance of measurement in supporting and enabling the UK's position. One of only five recommendations in the strategy now focuses wholly on the critical role of measurement in providing quality assurance, accuracy, reliability and traceability in the data used to deliver climate products and services.

The strategy sets the context for the UK's future work in this area and, with measurement very much embedded in the strategy, the Centre for Carbon Measurement is well positioned to maintain and grow its international leadership position in this area.

David Willetts, said:

"The UK has a world-leading space technology industry. To build on this success we need to secure a growing share of global markets, like weather and climate services. This excellent report sets out a range of commercial opportunities to help drive growth and foster innovation in the sector. It complements Government's recent support of £1.2 billion for the European Space Agency and £25 million for a National Space Technology Programme."

For more information and to download the strategy, please visit the UK Space Agency website

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For further details, please contact Hilary Elliott