Analytical tools

Global Surface Water Explorer

Get a global, highly detailed view of water on Earth.

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Who it helps

Governments

Individuals

What it does

Built on Google Earth Engine, the platform provides detailed statistics and maps of water on the planet. It’s intended to help countries meet UN Sustainable Development Goal 6.6.1 to protect and restore global freshwater ecosystems.

In collaboration with

The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre

UN Environment Programme (UNEP)

Swirl of light pinks and dark blues on a white background to signfiy surface water
A map showing percentage change of surface water over time.
The Aral Sea has shrunk by around 80 percent since 1985.
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A new app to map and monitor the world’s freshwater supply