The availability of environmental and Earth resources data acquired by satellites can assist all countries to gain a better understanding of how to safeguard their environment as well as ensure a more efficient management and productive harnessing of their natural resources, However, in order for the developing countries to share in the benefits inherent in remote sensing technology and in programmes related to environmental information systems, particularly through their participation in international, regional and national programmes and projects, there must be an adequate and long-term commitment to and an investment in the development of skills and knowledge in the discipline at the local level. This article focuses on the United Nations initiative to establish regional Centres for Space Science and Technology Education which should provide a unique opportunity for the development of such an indigenous capability. These Centres have the potential to contribute significantly to the implementation of the recommendations of the Rio Conference, otherwise known as Agenda 21 and to the successful execution of the programme of activities of the user communities in the developing countries.