CURRENT STATUS OF GLOBAL MAPPING PROJECT: RELEASE OF GLOBAL MAP VERSION 1.0 AND START OF PHASE II

The Global Map is the effective tool for understanding current status of the global environment and taking measures for sustainable development. In November 1998, the United Nations recommended the heads of National Mapping Organizations to participate in Global Mapping Project. Current number of countries and regions participating in Global Mapping Project is eighty-three. In November 2000, "Global Mapping Forum 2000" was held in Hiroshima, Japan. The highlight of the Forum was a declaration of release of the Global Map first edition. Global Map version 1.0 for six countries is now available for non-commercial users via Internet. 1. BACKGROUND