The Australian Environmental Resources Information Network [ERIN] is setting up a national facility to allow ready access to key information on the Australian environment. ERIN was formed in 1989 to "draw together, upgrade and supplement information on the distribution of endangered species, vegetation types and heritage sites".
The ERIN Program is based on cooperative efforts with those agencies interested in environmental information and effective environmental decision-making. This information is being be made available through a computer network so that it is available at the point where it is required.
Data need not be stored centrally, but rather at a network node where they are under the control of the individual custodians. This ensures the data will be updated and otherwise maintained by those best able to do so. All data, regardless of type, should be accessible through an easy-to-use interface, which incorporates a comprehensive directory facility.
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