Comparative Analysis of Long-Term Data Preservation Surveys: NFDI4Earth M2.4, EOSC EDEN, and FIDELIS (NFDI4Earth Deliverable D2.4.2)

As long-term preservation becomes a priority in research data management, it is crucial to assess how institutions define, implement, and support these practices. This report synthesises findings from three recent surveys: NFDI4Earth M2.4 (Germany), EOSC EDEN, and FIDELIS (both European initiatives), which collectively explore infrastructure, policy, and operational maturity related to long-term preservation of digital data. Rather than repeating efforts, our measure strategically opted not to launch a second national survey, instead leveraging overlapping insights from the EOSC initiatives. The consolidated analysis reveals common strengths in policy ambition but widespread operational fragmentation and training gaps. This document highlights shared challenges, illustrates complementary findings, and suggests integration pathways for national-level strategies, especially in aligning terminology, capacity building, and certification standards.