1.4 Accuracy of information and conflicting information

Information on large-scale land investments is often fragmentary and, in some cases, it is difficult to fully assess the details of individual cases. Given this lack of data, as well as the fact that the Land Matrix only captures certain aspects in a schematised manner, their complexity might not be completely reflected.

Nevertheless, it is crucial that all information collected in the database is based on credible data sources and can be verified against these. It is therefore essential that all sources of information used are recorded in the "Data sources” section within the deal. Variables for which no data sources could be found despite intensive research must be left blank.

In cases of diverging or contradictory information, each piece of information should be carefully verified and its plausibility assessed.
If uncertainties remain and none of the sources can be identified as clearly more reliable or plausible, the more moderate value or statement should be used.

A clear note on the existing discrepancies must be provided in the comment field of the respective variable, along with a justification for the information ultimately entered.

Please note: The comment fields of each variable can and should be used to enrich the data and provide additional details on deals, particularly in the case of complex deals. They also allow you to include personal remarks for other users, such as doubts regarding specific sources or quotations. Comment fields are also of particular importance for subsumed deals (see Section 1.5).