Current shortcomings of global mapping and the creation of a new geographical framework for the world

Abstract

The vast bulk of topographic mapping ‐ the geographical framework used to underpin many activities of the state and of business ‐ has been created and is maintained to national standards. As a consequence, what is available differs greatly from country to country. Yet there is a range of needs for globally‐consistent map information. Such needs have long been recognized: the International Map of the World was an attempt to meet them. A multiplicity of factors has constrained the National Mapping Organizations from meeting this aim. However, new technologies have enhanced our capacity to create a geographical framework almost anywhere in the world. Using such technologies, commercial and other non‐commercial bodies (e.g. the US military and its counterparts within NATO) have begun to produce wide‐area geographical information. This paper describes the nature of the need for global mapping, the players involved and the drivers and obstacles to progress. It proposes a rapid way to enhance the current situation through public/private sector partnerships based on a combination of skills, information assets and resources. If implemented, this could lead to global coverage of a framework derived from 1:25000 scale mapping within about two years.

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