Digital tools for a greener Europe: democracy, environmental justice and sustainability in the EU through information and communication technologies and geographic information systems

Abstract

In the European Union there is solid legal support for the use of information and communication technologies associated with geographic information systems in favour of the environment. Digital technologies not only shape the way we live but they can be a lever for environmental awareness and protection. The potential of the association between information and communication technologies and geographic information systems is huge in order to deepen the European democracies and to promote sustainable development. The ultimate demonstration is the 2007 Inspire Directive. The advantages of the Inspire Directive for the citizens, the Member States and the European Union in what concerns democracy, environmental justice and sustainability in the EU will be briefly analysed.