The TARA framework for developing SDG indicator data: applications in Human Footprint Mapping in Peru and Ecuador

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) rely on indicators to report on national progress and inform decision-making. However, available data for indicators is often inadequate and insufficient. Addressing these gaps requires considering essential characteristics of SDG indicator data to ensure their effectiveness. We developed the "TARA framework," a new approach for producing effective SDG indicator data, emphasizing Trust, Availability, Replicability, and Adequacy, advocating for national ownership as the overarching goal, and outlining actionable characteristics. Furthermore, we used this framework to assess input datasets and selection strategies to produce Human Footprint maps for SDG indicators in Peru and Ecuador. We found that national datasets adhere less to the framework than regional or global datasets and that using datasets with limitations is better than excluding them, but trade-offs must be considered. The TARA framework can guide the SDG community in producing effective data for indicator reporting on SDGs.