The scientific and practical values of the
isotope signatures of various components of the water cycle
have been recognized in various international fora and scientific
programmes. The addition of GNIR (Global Network of Isotopes
in Rivers) and MIBA (Moisture Isotopes in the Atmosphere and
Biosphere) data to the Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation
(GNIP) has further strengthened the Agency's monitoring activities
to ensure a broader and extensive use of isotope tools to
understand functioning of and interactions between the water
cycle and other biogeochemical cycles. A substantial increase
in the request for isotope data for hydrological, climatic
and ecological applications has been observed during the last
years. To cater to the need of researchers and practitioners,
the Agency has undertaken a number of initiatives to further
improve the overall quality and spatial coverage of isotope
data.
A preliminary version of an integrated, computer-assisted
mapping environment for the dissemination of chemical and
isotope hydrological data has been further improved in collaboration
with the University of Vienna. Existing data from the Agency's
databases related to water resources- all included under the
Isotope Hydrology Information System (ISOHIS) - will be used
in a Geographical Information System (GIS) application. A
full fledged online information application which is under
testing, would be available online worldwide via Internet
browser facilitating free access while eliminating limitations
like place, time, technical issues or software installation.
