ADB_book_18 April.qxp - Himalayan Document Centre - icimod

Figure 13.7: Framework for Environment and Natural Resources Information and Decision Support SystemsSource: ICIMOD/MENRIS Programme Brochureenvironmental information or metainformation,nor a comprehensive list of datasources, environmental publications, andreports. Often available information iscommunicated verbally, and little attention ispaid to structuring the data in a computerizedsystem. It is often easier for agencies to simplyre-collect information.(ii) There is no clear mandate or policy at theinstitutional level responsible for defining,maintaining, and updating environmental dataand information. There is little or no interactionamong institutions or projects, and theirmandates, authorities, responsibilities, andfunctions often overlap.(iii)The present level of information gathering onthe environment is insufficient and importantdata gaps persist. There are gaps in terms ofdesired frequency and desired level ofgeographic disaggregation. Even where dataare available, they remain sectoral in natureand most often incompatible across sectors,areas, and time.(iv) Many organizations use different methods foracquiring, storing, processing, analyzing, andpresenting environmental data and information.Harmonization of environmental dataand information is difficult.(v) Information networking between local andnational levels remains weak, and coordinationamong the line agencies for effective datasharing is non-existent. The data sharingculture remains poorly developed.Chapter 13: Environmental Information, Analysis, and Integration203