VISUALIZATION OF GEOSPATIAL INFORMATION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT DECISION MAKING Siekierska

Visualization refers to various types of graphic representation of geospatial information ranging from static to dynamic presentation (cartographic visualization), to exploratory data analysis (scientific visualization). Visualization projects carried out by Natural Resources Canada focus primarily on the former: web-based, interactive, dynamic representation of information, suitable for effective communication of geospatial concepts in support of decision making. The general objective of the visualization projects is to explore, develop and implement visualization techniques capable of translating complex scientific information into a form that readily communicates sustainable development forecast scenarios to various user groups, in particular to policy decision makers in the federal government of Canada. Currently, a visualization project is being carried out within the Sustainable Development through Knowledge Integration Program of the Earth Sciences Sector of Natural Resources Canada. Previously, various visualization tools were developed to support knowledge communication about Canada’s recently created northern territory, Nunavut. Several web-based visualization techniques were developed for effective communication of geospatial information. These include: integration of heterogeneous data, such as raster and vector geospatial data and textual social development information, dynamic representation of 2D and 3D data, intuitive interfaces, and others. This paper discusses the challenges involved in the promotion and use of geospatial data for sustainable development by decision makers.