European collaborative green mapping - update

We recently heard from the European Commission's Lifelong Learning Programme regarding our application for a Partnership project with Berlin, Budapest and Bistrita (Transylvania, Romania). To our delight the news is all four partners have been approved! The project's aim is to facilitate collaborative green mapping within and between the four partners. We will use the Open Green Map system which interactively charts natural, cultural and green living sites.

This is a transnational project between four river cities: Bristol (UK), Berlin (Germany), Budapest (Hungary) and Bistrita (Romania). The project will set in motion a collaborative, green map-making process within and between these four European partners. This will involve the creation of online and possibly paper maps charting local resources for more sustainable living. These thematic maps will use the internationally standardized Green Map System (GMS) of icons.

Participants will have the opportunity to gain new ICT skills and learn more about sustainability issues locally and internationally. They will exchange experiences and learn about other European communities on Study Visits. This will be achieved through a participatory process that is creative, enjoyable and enhances confidence. The process may include storytelling, photography and film-making through group and public events.

Outputs and Products will include a Study Visit to each Partner, a shared website, four local green maps, documentary film (online/DVD) and a European Green Mapping Guide. Target Groups will include those from disadvantaged and under-represented sectors including older people and those without basic qualifications.

We will be welcoming participants from all three partner cities to an event in Bristol this October. We will be working with Knowle West Media Centre as our local partner in this project.