Open Data in Global Environmental Research: The Belmont Forum's Open Data Survey

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Data infrastructure
• Information science

Background:

• The Belmont Forum conducted a survey on open data within the global environmental research and data infrastructure community.
• Understanding user perceptions, infrastructure needs, and data sharing dynamics is crucial for advancing environmental research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate perceptions of "open data" among environmental researchers and data professionals.
• To identify user expectations for data infrastructure functionalities.
• To determine barriers and enablers influencing data sharing in environmental research.

Main Methods:

• A global survey was distributed to the environmental research and data infrastructure community.
• The survey collected data on user perceptions, infrastructure expectations, and factors affecting data sharing.
• Qualitative and quantitative data analysis was employed to interpret findings.

Main Results:

• Respondents provided diverse examples of good practices in data sharing.
• Significant uptake of data sharing via e-infrastructures was observed, alongside a recognized need for improvement.
• Funder policies emerged as the most significant motivator for data sharing among policy responses.

Conclusions:

• Stronger mandates from funders are likely to enhance data sharing practices.
• Continued investment in and consolidation of e-infrastructures are necessary.
• Addressing identified barriers and leveraging enablers will further promote open data in environmental research.