An interoperability strategy for the next generation of SEEA accounting

The paper argues that current SEEA implementation is hindered by siloed data and uncoordinated modeling platforms. It proposes a shift toward semantic interoperability—where data and models are machine-understandable—using the ARIES Network as a proof-of-concept. The strategy outlines specific roles for data providers, modelers, and hosting institutions to create a decentralized 'network of networks' that adheres to FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) principles. Implementation is suggested through a four-step process involving pilot testing, stakeholder engagement, governance coordination via the UN, and capacity building.

• Current ecosystem service modeling platforms often duplicate efforts and rely on siloed data, which prevents the effective reuse of knowledge from previous modeling exercises.
• The ARIES Network achieves high-level semantic interoperability by using semantically annotated content, allowing systems to understand the meaning of exchanged data rather than just relying on compatible formats (syntactic interoperability).
• To maximize data interoperability, providers should use Open Geospatial Consortium services, maintain machine-accessible formats with APIs, and commit to common ontologies and vocabularies.
• Modelers can improve interoperability by adopting modular designs where each annotation describes a single concept, using distributed version control, and tracking the provenance of all products.
• A decentralized peer-to-peer system of hosting institutions (such as NSOs or research groups) is preferred over a centralized entity to ensure stability, flexibility, and local control of critical data.
• The proposed implementation path consists of four steps: pilot testing with strategic partners, engaging communities of practice (such as those managing energy or air emissions accounts), establishing governance (potentially through the UN Committee of Expert on Environmental-Economic Accounting), and developing training materials.

APA

Villa, F., Balbi, S., Bagstad, K., & Bulckaen, A. (2023). An interoperability strategy for the next generation of SEEA accounting. Basque Centre for Climate Change. https://www.bc3research.org/h6T8Uy8Nm4gFs0O/20231204035229485411823.pdf

Chicago

Villa, Ferdinando, Stefano Balbi, Ken Bagstad, and Alessio Bulckaen. An interoperability strategy for the next generation of SEEA accounting. Basque Centre for Climate Change, 2023. https://www.bc3research.org/h6T8Uy8Nm4gFs0O/20231204035229485411823.pdf.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |last1=Villa |first1=Ferdinando |last2=Balbi |first2=Stefano |last3=Bagstad |first3=Ken |last4=Bulckaen |first4=Alessio |title=An interoperability strategy for the next generation of SEEA accounting |publisher=Basque Centre for Climate Change |date=November 2023 |url=https://www.bc3research.org/h6T8Uy8Nm4gFs0O/20231204035229485411823.pdf |access-date=23 October 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{villa2023interoperability, author = {Villa, Ferdinando and Balbi, Stefano and Bagstad, Ken and Bulckaen, Alessio}, title = {{An interoperability strategy for the next generation of SEEA accounting}}, institution = {Basque Centre for Climate Change}, year = {2023}, month = nov, url = {https://www.bc3research.org/h6T8Uy8Nm4gFs0O/20231204035229485411823.pdf}, urldate = {2026-10-23}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }