January 2006: This is our second edition of the online map. This time we've added many new sites relating to sustainable transportation as well as an extensive "Online Resources" list accessible from the links above. We've also worked on making the site more user-friendly. Try it out and help the evolution of the map by offering your feedback and site nominations.
To view the map, Click on the "Online Map" menu tab at the top of this page. This map requires Flash to be installed on your computer. If you do not already have it, a dialogue box will prompt you to install it. The file is 1 megabyte in size, so depending on your connection speed, it may take a little while to load. Please be patient, we are sure you will find the green map informative, and enjoyable to use. Once loaded, a tutorial will automatically play explaining how to navigate the map. Follow the instructions and explore the Sustainable State of Detroit.
What is a GREEN MAP?
Green Maps are locally created maps that chart the natural and cultural environment. Using adaptable tools and a shared visual language of Green Map Icons to highlight green living resources, Green Maps cultivate citizen participation and community sustainability.
The Green Map System is a global eco-cultural movement, energized by local knowledge, action and responsibility.
Why a GREEN MAP?
The issues of ecological and social sustainability are complex and interconnected (as is all of life). The ecological and social fabric of Detroit is in great need of restoration: positive options and hope need to be encouraged. In Detroit, as elsewhere, there is a general lack of knowledge as to what things actually contribute to sustainability, and although positive ecological and cultural resources abound, many people are often not aware of them. We believe that the Green Mapping process is a powerful way to make visible -- and more accessible -- the many and diverse components of sustainability that are already present in our city. The Green Map System with its 150 Icons has won many awards* for its artistic and innovative use of communication medias, and its capacity to address and impact ecological sustainability and enrich the wider community. (*Awards include the *President’s Council on Sustainable Development “National Award for Sustainability – Telecommunication and New Communication Tools”, a d the United Nations Centre for Human Settlement “Global Best Practices 100 List”. Learn more at www.greenmap.org .)
Why a DETROIT GREEN MAP?
We are beginning with a focus on Detroit because of the history of degradation and disempowerment that has taken place here over time. Many factors affect the health of Detroiters and their environment. The Industrial Revolution and urban flight have left Brownfields and toxic waste throughout the city, and poor neighborhoods have taken the biggest burden of the ecological disadvantage. In the mid 90’s there were 2500 Brownfields in the city. Tests done in 2002-3 by co-lab and other organizations found many “Hotspots” in both east and west side neighborhoods where toxic lead contamination was 1000 to 3000 Parts Per Million. These high levels, which exceed the EPA safety limit of 400 PPM, can cause brain damage in children age 0-6 years. In addition to this kind of stress, Detroiters are currently the “most overweight” individuals in the country based on “relevant environmental determinants affecting fitness, obesity and health” (American Obesity Association 2004 statistics). For these and many other reasons, there is great need for knowledge about healthy living: how to find non-toxic products, garden organically, conserve energy (and money) in the home, join with others, and advocate for the environment. There is a great need for a positive vision that can inspire active enjoyment of the out-of-doors and beautification of neighborhoods. To address these and other concerns, The Detroit Green Map will provide a motivating format which will help connect people with Remediation Sites throughout the city, give links to existing pollution data, as well as indicate positive opportunities such as parks, bike paths, local “green businesses” and more.
The DETROIT GREEN MAP Coordination Team
The coordination team is comprised of dedicated individuals with expertise in design, architecture, environment, community-building and education who have been actively working together on the Detroit Green Map Project since July, 2003. The team grew out of the Adamah Project / Sustainable Detroit, and has received funding from the State of Michigan Energy Office (a $6000 Community Energy Grant) to map Green Building Resources in the Detroit Area, as well as other donations. Our website (www.detroitgreenmap.org) includes many of the activities & accomplishments the team has made to date.
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This website is hosted by CLIQ Services and designed by 4c design studios.
Both services were donated. Any questions or concerns about the site
should be directed to webmaster@detroitgreenmap.org.