This discussion paper outlines the status quo of the most salient challenges related to the collection, management and use of environmental data, algorithms and insights according to a comprehensive group of international stakeholders convened by UN Environment and the UN Science Policy Business Forum (see Annex I). The paper translates a summary of various priorities and inputs into a consolidated vision statement and set of opportunities, risks and governance challenges. It calls for the establishment of a digital ecosystem for the environment as a global public good, governed through an international process backed by the UN as a key tool to monitor the health of our planet and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.