Sustainable Living

Place where food waste, leaves, garden and lawn cuttings are biodegraded into rich new soil. Can include large-scale or demonstration projects, drop-off sites, or places to buy locally produced compost, or to get information, worms and resources for indoor and garden composting.

Encompasses small-scale city farm to full-size rural farms that are organic, biodynamic or using other sustainable methods. Can be used to indicate organizations that make the link between urban communities and nearby farmers though community-supported agriculture (also known as CSAs or box schemes), 4H demonstration farms, agriculture schools or food security resources and networks.

A place that contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers without compromising natural resources. Fair trade organizations (backed by consumers) support producers, raise awareness and promote higher standards for international labour, environmentalism and social issues compared to the practices of conventional international trade.

Practice of increasing the efficiency of buildings and their use of energy, water, and materials while reducing building impacts on health and the environment throughout the complete building life cycle by incorporating better siting, design, construction, systems, operation, maintenance and removal.

Retail outlet whose major thrust is to sell a wide range of ecologically-conscious products (eco-products). 100% of all products may not truly be major improvements over conventional products, but the intention, method of production, materials, reductions of impacts in use, store policies, etc. address sustainability principles.

The emphasis is on wholesome, healthful, fresh foods, made with local and/or organic ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan foods (no animal products whatsoever) are served. Meat and dairy products are from ethically treated animals raised carefully to minimize environmental and health impacts, without additives, genetic modifications or factory farm practices. Endangered fish, marine and other species are not served. Cooperatively-owned cafes, cafes that grow their own food as well as "Slow Food" sites can be included, as can traditional or special local cuisines.

Areas which favour walking over automobiles, such as pedestrian malls, plazas and traffic calmed areas that limit or restrict car traffic. Can indicate a route around an especially interesting area using a (dotted) line or line of icons. Walks or well-placed running paths can be established or recommended but should be non-intrusive to sensitive or protected areas.

Drop-off site for materials that can be reprocessed or refilled. Businesses that buy, work with or sell products made from recycled materials, information resources, and good examples of recycled materials in use. Businesses that collect materials for recycling from homes and businesses.

Centre or resource for research in natural sciences, environmental studies and related sciences and technologies benefiting biodiversity and humanity. May be indoors or outdoors.

A property, café, shop, residential complex, service or other business, co-operative or non-profit organisation that is cooperatively managed and/or benefits society. Eco-villages, communal projects, upliftment projects, copyright/cultural commons and even open source projects could be included here.

 

Includes waterwheels, tidal power and wave power, all generated by the water's natural movement. Sometimes called marine power. Not for large-scale dams or hydro-power projects which can devastate biodiversity both upstream and downstream.

Accessible ramps, rails, elevators and other facilities provided for people with disabilities. Encourage exploration of nature trails and park areas with this icon. (Useful for baby carriages and market carts, too).