Culture & Design

eco building tour: are made with responsible materials and building systems, and often give public tours emphasizing negative impact reductions (regularly scheduled or by appointment). May include centers for energy efficiency and understanding environmental systems for buildings.

museum/institution: these are either entirely about nature's interconnections with urban culture, or frequently include the environment in programs and exhibitions. You may opt to limit your selection to those featuring sustainable ways of living, social responsibility or other locally relevant criterion.

eco-spiritual site: places to contemplate nature or spiritual pursuit, may be an organized religion's sanctuary or environmental program, or a profoundly beautiful place, even an old cemetery or 'oasis of calm' in a busy area.

cultural/historical site: these contribute to the city's environment and sense of place in many important ways. Non-institutional resources, monuments and places, even temporary events (monthly swap meet, annual eco-fair) may be included.

art spot: ecologically oriented artworks, may include earthworks, public art or performance art, or other. May be resources for making eco art that is sustainably produced, information on events or schools related to environmental art.

significant building: of great importance, generally, to the community. Sites that impart a sense of place. Co-housing, natural buildings and schools, or buildings with historic, cultural, architectural value could also be included.

urban eco design feature: Exciting design features including public transport stations, plazas, integrated native plantings and street furniture such as kiosks, benches, fountains, or lighting that use materials and energy efficiently, contributing to the streetscape. Can indicate an area planned to be ecologically sound.

historical feature: edifice, institution, monument or unmarked historical area with special significance to the city's environment and sense of place.

traditional way of life: may be indigenous, pioneer or migrated peoples' traditions. Might not be assimilated into prevailing culture. May be resources for learning about or visiting people living in traditional, more self-sufficient ways.

health resource: alternative medicine sources, herbal, homeopathic, eastern, etc. Spas, apothecaries, clinics, health club, nutritional and yoga are possible examples.

revised 2-4-99
text from the Green Map System's Guide to Green Mapmaking, ©Modern World Design 1999