Uplifting FAIR and CARE across Earth and Environmental Science (E&ES) Data. A Discussion Paper

Outcome 3 of Australia’s 2024 National Data Research Infrastructure (NDRI) Strategy aims for consistent standards for data collection, curation, and access by 2030 through a cross-sector data management framework that supports adopting the FAIR and CARE principles. This discussion paper was prepared by the Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC), outlining core challenges and recommendations for the Earth and Environmental Sciences (E&ES) in delivering this outcome. CONTENTS Executive Summary 1. Context: NDRI uplift of FAIR and CARE 2. Purpose of the document 3. Scope of the document, including a note on CARE 4. Background: The importance of FAIR and CARE for the Australian Earth and Environmental Sciences (E&ES) 5. Implementation challenges for FAIR and CARE in the Australian Earth and Environmental Sciences (E&ES) 6. Proposed functions to uplift FAIR and CARE for E&ES Data 7. Conclusions 8. Appendix 1: Contextual information used in preparing this document 9. References