Because the original and essential value of spatial data data that refer to specific geographical locations or areas lies in environmental decision-making, such data mostly originate in the public sector and are made available to people, companies, and public bodies according to rules of access, re-use and sharing. In the European Union, a complex system is in place by which public provision of spatial data is determined according to a tripartite distinction: sharing among public bodies for environmental policy purposes; public information or access upon request; and re-use for commercial or non-commercial purposes based upon the economic value of the data. How well does this distinction hold up against actual demands? It is the content
|