Introduction

Abstract

Wilderness and wilderness definitions are complex and problematic and therefore present particular difficulties for mapping and GIS, both of which depend largely on carefully defined attributes and discrete criteria. The rationale for mapping wilderness is described and our interest in the topic justified in terms of wilderness protection, conservation, human benefits and nature. The threats to wilderness are legion and somewhat obvious to anyone with even a basic understanding of the planet. Human population growth and associated demand for land, food and resources is the key impact on wilderness. Road construction opens up wilderness areas for exploitation, farming and settlement. Even our attempts to lessen our impact on global climate and ecosystems can lead to further reductions in wildness (e.g. renewable energy technologies while reducing our carbon footprint can have marked impacts on wild landscapes). The basic concepts of wilderness mapping are outlined and a brief history of wilderness mapping described including key developments at global, regional and local scales. The structure and contents of the book are given.