Future Earth (FE) established a Data and Observations Task Force co-chaired by Dr Eduardo Brondizio (FE Science Committee) and Mr Mario Hernandez (FE Engagement Committee). The Task Force will initiate activities at upcoming two half-days meetings, the second of which is a working session during the FE Science and FE Engagement Committee meetings in Tokyo. ICSU-WDS will be contributing to both meetings, together with CODATA and GEO representatives.