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International Cartographic Association
Introduction
ICA is the world authoritative body for cartography, the discipline dealing with the conception, production, dissemination and study of maps. Its mission is to promote the discipline and profession of cartography in an international context.
The International Cartographic Association exists:
- to contribute to the understanding and solution of world-wide problems through the use of cartography in decision-making processes;
- to foster the international dissemination of environmental, economic, social and spatial information through mapping;
- to provide a global forum for discussion of the role and status of cartography;
- to facilitate the transfer of new cartographic technology and knowledge between nations, especially to the developing nations;
- to carry out or to promote multi-national cartographic research in order to solve scientific and applied problems;
- to enhance cartographic education in the broadest sense through publications, seminars and conferences;
- to promote the use of professional and technical standards in cartography.
The Association works with national and international governmental and commercial bodies and with other international scientific societies to achieve these aims.
New Zealand's involvement in the ICA started in 1976 when, at the 5th General Assembly in Moscow, New Zealand had been elected a full member of the ICA. Professor RG Lister from the University of Otago acted as the NZ representative while attending the International Geographical Union meeting at the same time.
In recent years New Zealand continues to maintain its membership and actively participates in the ICA General Assemblies and Conferences.
International Cartographic Association |
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NZ Liaison to ICA: Igor Drecki
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Definitions
Definition of a Map*
A map is a symbolised image of geographical reality, representing selected features or characteristics, resulting from the creative effort of its author's execution of choices, and is designed for use when spatial relationships are of primary relevance.
Definition of Cartography*
Cartography is the discipline dealing with the conception, production, dissemination and study of maps.
Definition of a Cartographer*
A cartographer is a person who engages in cartography.
*Adopted by the 10th General Assembly of the International Cartographic Association, Barcelona, Spain, 3 September 1995.
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