In collaboration with the University of Maryland (UMD) and the USGS SilvaCarbon program, an expert workshop was convened at the USGS headquarters in Reston, Virginia on March 20-22, 2024. The workshop aimed to explore the integration methods of space-based biomass maps with national forest inventories for policy-level reporting, with a particular focus on two case studies in Mexico and Mozambique.

The objectives of the workshop were threefold:

1. Receive an update from map developers on current methods and approaches to estimating biomass and associated uncertainty, and clarify what the current requirements for reporting on the policy side are.
2. Collaboratively review approaches and codes to integrate NFI data and EO-based AGBD (CCI) or forest height (GEDI) estimates. Data from two countries (Mexico and Mozambique) were used for this exercise, with the aim of creating codes/modules that are practically implementable by in-country technical teams. 
3. Collaboratively discuss the steps needed towards operationalizing the use of biomass maps in national estimation and reporting, the existing limitations on country uptake, as well as the possibility for developing guidance on the use of biomass maps for GHG reporting. Discussions were moderated by the GFOI R&D component lead and coordinator.

The workshop provided a platform for fruitful exchanges between biomass product developers, GHG reporting experts, statisticians, and country representatives, advancing efforts towards enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of policy-level reporting on biomass. A summary of the key points and discussions can be found here. Moving forward, sustained collaboration, focus on country needs, and a commitment to open communication of methods and results will be essential to formulate guidance on the use of biomass maps for country reporting. A follow-up GFOI workshop in which guidance is consolidated has been tentatively set for October 22-25, 2024 (location TBD).