Convergences Between Major SDI’s is the Next Step for Our Global Community
Abstract
Map World Forum 2009

Bas Kok
PRESIDENT
GLOBAL SPATIAL DATA INFRASTRUCTURE ASSOCIATION
THE NETHERLANDS
bas.kok@gsdi.org


Abstract

My paper will summarize the main results of Spatial Data Infrastructure developments throughout the world during the last ten years and how the SDI concept is nowadays being introduced in every corner of the world. This paper will highlight the Spatial Data Infrastructure in Europe and summarize the way in which the INSPIRE regulation was set up and implemented. I will explain the successes in the USA and the successful developments in the Asia Pacific region. I will introduce their initiative known as spatial enablement of governments and explain its principles. We are now at a stage of development where we can bring together all these successes as a starting point for a new phase. The challenge and opportunity for us all is to make use of all these successes to create a global agenda for which global challenges and SDI initiatives in the regions will find each other. Regional SDI developments are helping to create dynamics that will establish operational and conceptual bridges among spatial data infrastructures around the world and for the creation of a global agenda. The GSDI Association will look to other communities to help solve pressing global societal issues such as urban sprawl, sustainable development, water management, urban and rural poverty problems, environmental issues.