The main objective of the initiative for definition of a reference classification is to respond to the need for standardization (or harmonized collection of data, as mentioned in UNCED's Agenda 21 Chapter 10, for which FAO is Task Manager within the UN system) and to develop a common integrated approach to all aspects of land cover. This implies a methodology that is applicable at any scale, and which is comprehensive in the sense that any land cover identified anywhere in the world can be readily accommodated.