摘要: |
The use of emerging digital and web-based technologies in environmental compliance and management for water resources and maritime interests is gaining momentum. Many environmental agencies have fully implemented such programs. Several U.S. and international entities are now mandating the use of these technologies. Still others are in the planning stages in utilizing the new technologies. Use of these evolving technologies in the environmental compliance process for port planning and water resources projects will become standard practice in the not too distant future. In addition, the World Wide Web, the intra-net and inter-net, interactive "e-programs" and other emerging digital technologies are also gaining popularity for environmental compliance and management needs. The new technologies are being used for the submittal of water quality certification and permit application packages, stakeholder involvement in the formulation of water resources economic development plans in satisfying environmental compliance requirements for port feasibility studies and maintenance of existing waterways and ports. Still other uses include management and dissemination of environmental compliance data, interactive programs for stakeholder involvement, professional training and development, public citizen forums, and public review and comment. These emerging digital technologies bring many positive aspects to the environmental compliance process for both the regulatory agencies and environmental compliance manager. However the transition can present many challenges. A literature review indicates that computer equipment and software compatibility, data security and ownership, workforce development, financial issues, privacy & legal considerations, corporate culture & identity issues and other factors play a significant role in the success or failure of implementing a information technology program for environmental compliance applications for maritime activities. Research is still needed to access these factors in a comprehensive manner for the maritime sector. |