Optimal Set For Monitoring The EnvironmentIn Estonia − Neighbourhood Analysis

The paper proposes a geographical information systems approach for analysing the adequacy of environmental monitoring sets by spatially relating monitoring stations. The aim of the paper is to describe the point patterns of environmental monitoring networks in Estonia, assess their neighbourhood, configuration and representation on certain criteria, to analyse the overlapping and coherence of the theme networks and to allocate monitoring sets efficiently. The methodology is based on the statistical description of point patterns and neighbourhood analysis, specifically the nearest neighbour index and Ripley’s K-function. A prototype system based on the data model is implemented in Mapinfo, Vertical Mapper and CrimeStat, also the MS Office. The prototype is illustrated and tested by a case study based on Estonia’s environmental monitoring system and the spatial presentation of it. The proximity to certain land uses, land cover and human impacts is investigated. Spatial factor results may have implications for the design of a monitoring network assuming the national coverage. Evaluation of monitoring sites with mismatch to methodological or least-cost criteria can suggest the optimisation of the set.