Open Geodata
How can i help?
Help to demonstrate support
Visit Public Geodata to learn more about the proposed INSPIRE Directive estabilishing a spatial data infrastructure in Europe.
Open Access to State-collected Geospatial Data sets out the case for open geodata. If you agree, please sign up to indicate your support for the statements it contains.
Help to make maps
If you're interested in helping on the practical mapmaking side, there are several open mapping projects which could do with help; people cycling around town with GPS units, and collaboratively editing maps.
Help inform MPs and MEPs
In the UK, the power to license geodata is in the hands of the Ordnance Survey; their remit is to make money. That decision is in the hands of the ODPM which 'owns' the OS as a Trading Fund. Write to your MP and help convince them that there are policy alternatives which are beneficial to the economy and to society.
In the European Parliament, the INSPIRE directive on spatial data infrastructure in Europe is being rushed through without proper consultation, in the hands of a quangocracy of national mapping agencies. The licensing terms imposed will affect all our work on GIS and open geodata. Some points for a letter to an MEP are offered.
Find your MP's and MEP's contact details at WriteToThem.
Join the list and get involved
The geo-discuss list is a forum for people interested in open geodata policy.
The openstreetmap list is a forum for practical discussion of free of copyright mapmaking.
