Decentralized Damage Mapping Group

The Decentralized Damage Mapping Group (DDMG) uses Earth observation datasets to assess damage in conflict and disaster-affected regions. DDMG develops novel Earth observation methodologies to rigorously assess the impacts of wars on the environment. Through their research using Copernicus satellite data, including from Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2, as well as other civilian and commercial sensors, they have brought awareness to the utility and limitations of Earth observation data in mapping the impacts of war, which has received widespread media attention. The team has mapped urban and agricultural damage in conflict-affected regions such as Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon.

Members of the DDMG are:

• Dr Eoghan Darbyshire, Conflict and Environment Observatory, UK
• Dr Lina Eklund, Lund University, Sweden (Team Lead)
• Dr Marie Schellens, Pax for Peace, The Netherlands
• Dr Corey Scher, Oregon State University, USA
• Dr Jamon Van Den Hoek, Oregon State University, USA

DDMG are recipients of the 2025 Earth Observation Excellence Award.

Read full story: Earth Observation Excellence Award 2025 winners