Maps

The topics that could be included in a map are virtually endless, but some examples are:

• organisations, offices locally or globally, groups and facilities
• organisation’s members directory
• similar problems (deforestation, climate change) in different locations (Africa, Brazil), so possible solutions could be shared
• volunteers/stakeholders database
• events, workshops and meetings
• an archive of local history
• an inventory of “unofficial” green space
• details of local planning applications
• areas where people do and do not feel safe and why
• monitoring a local environmental problem, such as noise pollution
• a collection of cycling or walking routes favoured by local people

Why do you need a map?

evidence A lot of the decisions made about local areas in the UK and in several parts of the world are based on “evidence” collected or supplied by the government. While this seems reasonable, often this “official” information doesn’t tell the whole story or evidence is missing altogether. Bringing information based on local knowledge to a situation can help present an alternative view and can help create positive transformations in your community.

informationAnother valuable reason for having a map is simply to find out what is going on where you live or specific areas of interest.  Projects, events and facilities are often available on your doorstop without you knowing.  An interactive map provides a way to capture all of this information in one place. So whether you’re interested in food growing projects, attending your local safer neighbourhoods meeting, or sharing your organisation’s projects from around the world to encourage getting people involved, it can be useful to you.