Many nations have embraced the concept of open and unrestricted access to public sector information, particularly scientific, environmental and geographic information. Other nations are treating their public sector information as a commodity to be "commercialized" and attempting to assert their monopoly on certain categories of information in order to maximize revenues. These latter arrangements tend to preclude other entities from developing markets for information, including disseminating the information in the public interest. The scientific communities are particularly concerned such practices will decrease the availability of critical data and information. The practices of a number of countries implementing WMO Resolution 40 (Cg-XII) and WMO Resolution 25 (Cg-XIII), as well as the proposed IOC data policy statement, are fueling these concerns. This presentation will elaborate on the most recent activities being undertaken by the National Weather Service to raise issues of concern about access to public sector data and information with the international community.
- Indicates paper has been withdrawn from meeting
- Indicates an Award Winner