National Atlas for Sustainability

The National Atlas for Sustainability is a web-based, easy-to-use, mapping application that allows users to view and analyze multiple ecosystem services in a specific region. The Atlas will provide users with a visual method for interpreting ecosystem services and understanding how they can be conserved and enhanced for a sustainable future. The maps will provide users with an ability to assess:

• Clean and adequate water for drinking and domestic use
• Clean water for recreation and aquatic habitat
• Food, fuel and fiber
• Recreation, cultural and aesthetic amenities
• Climate regulation (e.g. carbon storage to off-set greenhouse gases)
• Protection from hazardous weather
• Habitat and the maintenance of biodiversity
• Clean air

The Urban Atlas (PDF) (2 pp, 99K, About PDF) component of the National Atlas will provide fine-scale information linking human health and well-being to environmental conditions such as urban heat islands, near-road pollution, resource use, access to recreation, drinking water quality and other quality of life indicators.