Corine land cover database passes accuracy test

The Corine Land Cover (CLC2000) database received a thumbs up for accuracy from an assessment of the project, details of which were released by the EEA today.

CLC2000 uses photo-interpretation of satellite images to show the impact of human activities on land use over a ten year period between 1990 and 2000. The spread of housing, food production and transport networks are all illustrated by the system. It also shows land cover changes in ecosystems, such as forests and lakes.

The accuracy of the CLC2000 'images' were validated by comparing them to other imaging types, such as ground based photography and written observations. The exercise shows that the database exceeded the 85% accuracy requirement set down in its technical guidelines.

CLC2000 provides a unique combination of geographical breadth and local detail unmatched by any other land cover information programme in the world. Passing the accuracy test strengthens its status as an invaluable tool in assessing how our actions affect Europe's land and the wider environment.

Work on the next update of CLC2000 will begin next year.

See report - http://reports.eea.europa.eu/technical_report_2006_7/en