Open Green Mapmaking Parties

where:

Manhattan

who:

Green Map System

impact area(s):

Education

amount needed:

$345

raised so far:

$12

summary

Think global, map local! The interactive Open Green Map charts green living, natural and cultural sites, engages action and invites public viewpoints.

the problem

We consider the lack of awareness regarding local resources for green living a major problem. Too many people feel overwhelmed by today's environmental complexities, and become apathetic and inactive. Yet, our world is at the tipping point: grave conditions and dire needs are now being met by a critical mass of local projects, people and organizations offering vital services and everyday green options for getting around, dining, shopping, learning, working and playing. At Green Map System, our mission is to foster the most inclusive and informed participation in sustainable community development, using mapmaking as our medium. Inspired by the original Green Apple Map of NYC's green innovation sites, natural, cultural and social resources, today, our network of locally-led Green Map projects has spread to 50 countries. And, within New York's 5 boroughs, there are numerous schools and community groups using our adaptable tools to create Green Maps of neighborhoods and special themes. Now, we are creating an online participatory mapmaking tool to help more people get involved! Help us throw mapmaking parties in NYC to give everyone a first-hand experience and exchange insights!

the solution

Open Green Map (OGM) merges the familiar Google Map, local knowledge and our globally recognized universal icons. This versatile tool removes the technological and financial hurdles to participation, shares local insights, develops green skills and learning, and promotes local social networks and global connections. It's a PR service for the hometown environment! Preview our user-friendly sustainability mapping platform at OpenGreenMap.org. Linking millions of people to the full array of local green living sites, nature, social and cultural resources charted by Green Mapmakers, each posted site can be enhanced with open public discussion. How can we help our map teams involve more people in promoting local sustainability? Bringing people together to talk about and then chart out resources, the party will not only instantly populate the online map, it will help generate ongoing involvement that makes going green fun. We'd like to test out different hands-on mapmaking party ideas in our own neighborhoods, then share the best approaches with Green Mapmaking teams in other communities.

the steps

Parties in Jackson Heights (Queens) and Lower East Side (Manhattan) will be created with your help. At least a month ahead, we'll choose the area and work with a neighborhood school or community group to plan in detail. 3 weeks ahead, we'll get the word out. 2 weeks ahead, we'll organize materials and refreshments. At the party, after introductions, we'll explain how the OGM platform works and the kinds of green sites and resources it displays. Participants will then go outdoors and explore in groups, documenting sites in text and images/video for a couple hours. We'll all get back together and celebrate as each site is added to the online map, which will be projected so all can see it build up! Each person will be equipped to stay involved and keep the online map growing over time.