Strengthening resilience in the Caribbean region through the Spatial Data Infrastructures

Abstract

Geospatial information is key for disaster prevention and for planning and implementation of policies that contribute to achieving sustainable development as well as social, economic, and environmental resilience. In the last decade, the production of geospatial information has increased considerably, but its management has become increasingly difficult for organizations that produce it, since it comes from multiple data sources with different characteristics. That is why several countries have opted for the development of National Spatial Data Infrastructures (NSDI) to improve access, visualization and integration of their data, and in turn to cooperate with other countries to develop regional SDIs, which allow better decision making for regional impact. However, the capacity to develop an SDI varies from one country to another, therefore, it is necessary to identify the strengths and gaps that exist in the region in order to contribute to the equal development of SDIs in an integrated and collaborative manner. This article presents the methodology and the results from the assessment of the initial status of the SDIs of the member of the Association of Caribbean States; the activities carried out for Strengthening the National SDIs; the results of the assessment of satisfaction and improvements in each of the participating countries; as well as recommendations to continue strengthening the geospatial information for decision making in the region.