Global Forest Watch

Global Forest Watch (GFW) is an open-access online platform that provides data and tools for monitoring the world's forests in near-real-time. Established in 1997 by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and relaunched in 2014 as a fully interactive platform, GFW leverages satellite technology and cloud computing to provide high-resolution information on tree cover change. It seeks to empower forest managers, law enforcement, and other stakeholders with timely data to stop illegal deforestation and manage resources sustainably. The platform features over 65 global and local datasets covering forest change, land use, conservation, and carbon emissions. In 2019, the organization launched GFW Pro to help businesses manage deforestation risks in their commodity supply chains. Additionally, the Forest Watcher mobile app allows users to take GFW data into the field, even without an internet connection, to record observations and take photos of forest activity. GFW's data is used daily by governments, NGOs, and citizens to hold institutions accountable and protect global biodiversity.