The GEO data portal is upgraded continuously, and now also includes indicators on human well-being in relation to environmental change. This process is underpinned by a dedicated, interactive online data system, the GEO data portal.9 This participatory and consultative process gives GEO assessments scientific credibility, accuracy and authority, targeting a wide audience by providing information to support environmental management and policy development. Promoting the active participation of developing-country experts and expanding GEO data facilities in developing regions is an important component of the activity. It also includes establishing and strengthening cooperation with new and existing data providers, and draws on the various assessments being produced throughout the United Nations system. Regarding data used, the development and use of data and information in the GEO assessment process is closely linked to the overall UNEP data and information strategy implementation. By its resolution 64/204 of 21 December 2009, the General Assembly highlighted the importance of building on the experiences gained from the preparation of global environmental assessments. South-South and North-South cooperation has been strengthened, with individual experts and institutions supporting processes in other regions. At the subglobal level, the GEO process has been replicated to undertake many regional, subregional, national and subnational assessments. Advisory groups provide guidance on conceptual approaches and methodology development and capacity-building. More than 40 organizations take part in GEO assessments at the global level, and many more participate at the subglobal level. A worldwide network of collaborating centres forms a strong assessment partnership at the core of the process and a focus for building capacity at various levels.
GEO is a consultative, participatory, capacity-building process for global environmental assessment and reporting on the state of the environment, trends and future outlook. Stakeholder involvement in the GEO assessment process is at many levels, involving Governments, research organizations, academic institutions, civil society, the private sector, young people and individual experts. Process used for stakeholder engagement in the assessment process and which component