Fugro has entered into a strategic collaboration with Esri, the global leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, to provide integrated geospatial solutions that empower climate resilience decision-making and sustainable development.
Initially, the joint effort will focus on tackling the environmental challenges of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), starting with SIDS in the Caribbean. Nearly 22 million people in SIDS live less than six metres above sea level, placing communities and infrastructures at high risk from coastal hazards. Yet, data gaps remain a major barrier. Many countries don’t have access to timely, user-friendly, and coordinated environmental data systems, especially at the land-sea interface. Fugro and Esri are helping SIDS confront urgent coastal and marine threats while building the foundation for long-term resilience and sustainable development.
The initiative is met with enthusiasm by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the PVBLIC Foundation, who are both actively advocating sustainable development support for SIDS in the region.
His Excellency Dr Didicus Jules of OECS said, “While high quality data is essential, it’s the insights derived from that data that empower our member states to make informed, timely and transformative decisions.”
The collaboration will combine Esri’s market-leading geographic information system (GIS) software- the mapping and location intelligence platform, with Fugro’s capabilities in satellite Earth observation, high-resolution surveys, in situ measurements, and predictive modelling, to deliver end-to-end geospatial solutions. Central to this integration is Fugro’s VirGeo® platform, which will serve as the core system for managing and analysing Geo-data. Together, these technologies will provide decision-makers with timely, actionable insights to support smarter, faster, and more resilient planning to face their challenges.
Mark Heine, CEO Fugro said, “Partnering with Esri reinforces our shared vision: transforming geospatial intelligence into meaningful impact. By uniting Fugro’s Geo-data expertise with Esri’s renowned GIS technology, we’re equipping island nations with the tools to navigate climate risks and shape a more resilient, sustainable future.”
The integrated solutions from Fugro and Esri are designed to be scalable and also adaptable to other sectors and regions. These could include offshore wind, maritime security, sustainable infrastructure, and nature conservation.
