Thoughts on the integration of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems Technology
He Changchui
Introduction
Information revolution has given rise to new opportunities and challenges fro social and economic development worldwide. Remote Sensing , as a branch of information technology, has been widely recognized as an efficient and essential tool for resource inventory, environment and natural hazard monitoring and environmentally sound development planning. Recently, there is an increasing interest in and a high demand for the development of geographic information systems. (GIS) technology in this region. The author holds an observation that a well integrated remote sensing and GIS technology will represent an important dimension of the modernization of natural resources and environment management In view of that, several issues in terms 0of technological policies, development strategies as well as implementation measures which are so essential to the successful introduction, assimilation of the new technologies were discussed in this paper.
1. Advanced information technology has created a tremendous impact on social and economic development. As an outcome of the information revolution, remote sensing has become an efficient and essential technology for resources inventory, environment and natural hazard monitoring and environmentally sound development planning. Many countries in the ESCAP region have adopted a policy for promoting remote sensing technology and its applications. Consequently, the region has made commendable achievements in rising to the challenge of such a new technology, which has already brought significant social and economic benefits.
2. With the advancement of computer technology and the continuous increase in remote sensing data gathering capability, geographic information systems (GIS) are rapidly becoming another important tool for resources management and development planning. Some developed countries have already started the operational use of GIS to assist in their resource management, development planning and decision making processes. It is widely recognized nowadays that decision making processes. It is widely recognized nowadays that the combined use of remote sensing and GIS technologies will enable managers and planners in the field of resources management and development as well as environment conservation to make decisions at a more scientific and rational level than ever before.
