A Geographical Information System (GIS) is used to analyse and query spatial data (such as population attributes) and is a tool to create maps. UE Associates use GIS in the majority of our projects in order to better understand the potential effects of plans and strategies on the human and natural environment. GIS analysis and maps help inform our work, as well as being useful for our clients and stakeholders – as the saying goes, 'a picture tells a thousand words'. Our previous GIS projects have included the collection and representation of data across the whole of Scotland, for sub-regions such as the Black Country and South Hampshire, and for localised projects and site-specific zones in Environmental Impact Assessments. We regularly create whole suites of maps for local authorities on a variety of topics as part of Sustainability Appraisals and Strategic Environmental Assessments. In previous projects we have mapped environmental considerations, flood zones, population and deprivation characteristics, health services, wildlife corridors, open space, proposed developments and transport links. GIS has been instrumental in the assessment of our recreational and visitor surveys, and for creating detailed surface maps of air pollution levels in the Solent. We also use GIS to identify which protected environments may be potentially effected by proposals in development plans (i.e. as part of Habitats Regulations Assessments), as well as in ecology work for the mapping of habitat types in Phase 1 Habitat Surveys.