Integrating Geographic Information Systems, Global Positioning Systems, and Data Management into Environmental Site Investigation Strategies

摘要

With the increasing need for integrated and cost-effective approaches to environmental problem solving as well as increased government requirements for submission of electronic data, it is becoming necessary for the modern environmental professional to add a variety of tools and strategies to their repertoire to handle the pressure from clients, the regulatory community, and the public. However, it seems that even with increased affordability, technologies such as GIS and GPS are not being used or are not being adequately integrated into the daily operations of the environmental professional. These technologies combined with an efficient data management system affords the modern consultant with the ability to streamline the site investigation process from initial assessment activities through all phases of investigation, remedial selection and remediation while providing powerful visualization, data reporting, and electronic data submission capabilities. While some limitations must be acknowledged, integration of these technologies can offer the environmental professional sophisticated tools to help effectively navigate complex environmental projects to completion.