The Role of Data Sharing in Environmental Assessment Processes: Evidence from a Systematic Review

<ns3:p>The effectiveness of environmental assessment (EA) depends highly on the availability of quality data, which can be facilitated by data sharing practices. This systematic review aims to explore the role of data sharing in improving the quality and transparency of EA, and to map the challenges and strategies for its implementation. Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a literature search was conducted in Scopus and Taylor & Francis databases. Inclusion criteria comprised English open-access journal articles published between 2020 and 2025. Risk of bias was evaluated based on methodological validity and data representativeness, and findings were synthesized using a thematic narrative approach. Out of 107 identified records, 30 articles met the eligibility criteria. The synthesis revealed four main themes: technical infrastructure, institutional governance, public participation, and privacy ethics. Data sharing consistently automates analytical workflows, fills monitoring data gaps via citizen science, and supports evidence-based policy. However, its implementation is hindered by poor technical interoperability, institutional reluctance to share proprietary data (data friction), and public distrust regarding privacy. Data sharing serves as an essential analytical infrastructure that enhances EA transparency. Optimizing its function requires not only open-format standardization but also formal regulatory frameworks and strong public engagement strategies to overcome socio-political and governance barriers.</ns3:p>