Building a Linked Data Cloud for the Geosciences

  Linked Data describes a method of publishing structured data that is interlinked and open. By using Semantic Web Technologies and unique identifiers, Linked Data can enhance sharing and utility of data while also making it machine understandable. The geosciences have seen initial successes in Linked Data with systems such as the Global Change Information System [1]. Yet, there remain surprisingly few geoscience Linked Data sets. Moreover, Linked Data in general has recently come under scrutiny within the broader Semantic Web community due to difficulties in consuming the data. This session reviews the current state-of-the-art in Linked Data and discusses steps toward building and maintaining a Linked Data cloud for the geosciences. Specifically, we will look at techniques for modeling and publishing Linked Data that can maximize reuse. We will also explore issues surrounding data quality and its implications for end users. And, finally, we will explore ESIP’s potential role in serving as a hub for the registration and cataloging of linked geoscience data sets.

[1] https://data.globalchange.gov/