Modifiable Areal Unit Problem (MAUP)

Deciding on an appropriate research design, interpreting study results, or choosing a suitable public policy to mitigate environmental risk implies a decision, either implicit or explicit, about spatial scale and resolution. The modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP) is a formal statement of the dilemma facing researchers, risk assessors, and policy makers when they use geographical data—results of statistical analyses usually depend on subjective decisions about geographical units of analysis and the level of data aggregation within those units. Consideration of the MAUP is essential for the development of effective and efficient strategies for managing environmental health risks. Keywords: aggregation levels; environmental risk; geographical units; spatial resolution; spatial scale