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are aimed directly at remote sensing data policy. One such example is that of Rep. Mrazek 
(D- N.Y.), who has brought forward a Bill (H.R. 1574) that would provide national subsidies 
for Landsat data, and an operational remote sensing agency. His arguments are based on 
national security, and on environmental responsibility. 
Not all United States initiatives are progressive. There are those who would amend 
the Landsat Act to increase the distance between government presence and the remote 
sensing private sector, even going so far as to eliminate the requirement for 
nondiscriminatory data distribution for commercial remote sensing satellites [Shaffer 1990]. 
Although this would seem to be contrary to the spirit of the UN policy on remote sensing, 
the point is, such attitudes exist. The EOS program is considering putting some of its data 
into the commercial arena. Clearly this raises the question as to the distinction between 
EOS data for the market place, and for the public good. Those who have a progressive view 
regarding environmental applications of remotely sensed data need to be heard. 
A Soviet Initiative 
Against the background of increasing interest in commercial aspects of remote 
sensing, the Soviets have called for developed nations to implement ideas similar to those 
first considered at the Stockholm Conference in 1972. The basic approach suggested is to 
establish an international organization on remote sensing and environmental monitoring that 
would include all nations on a cost sharing basis. It would "... help reduce prices for space- 
obtained information at the world market and better satisfy the needs of the developing 
countries" [Mozjorin 1990]. From the standpoint of global environmental monitoring and 
sustainable development, the initiative has some merit. 
5. A RECOMMENDATION 
The time would seem to be right for the issue of data policy for active environmental 
monitoring to be reconsidered at high levels. Clearly remote sensing nations need to be 
involved, through their space agencies, their private sectors, and their administrations. 
Economic Summit Countries could use this theme as one tangible response to 
recommendations raised in respect of global environmental issues. Professional societies 
should be willing to provide consultative expertise. International coordinating bodies such 
as the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites should be directly concerned. The United 
Nations, particularly UNEP, UNDP, and the Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space 
would be natural if not essential participants. Experts from developing countries should be 
able to contribute their experience and views. There is no shortage of potential partners, 
nor should there be resistance to work towards the common interest on this question. 
The challenge is to get started. Therefore we call upon Commission VII of the 
International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing to make specific moves. 
Commission VII should seek active support from the new ISPRS Intercommission Working