Wendy Brawer

As an eco-designer and cultural creative with 25 years of practical experience in systems thinking, civic engagement and communications, I’ve worked around the world and across New York City as a partner, consultant, strategist and connector.

I am an interpreter of progress toward sustainability. As the founder and director of the nonprofit Green Map System, I have helped increase capacity for change in 65 countries. Green Mapmaking brings complex issues down to the local level where people can take action that both increases well-being in their own community and has a positive impact on our common future. On an open source basis, I have co-produced a globally recognized iconography, engagement and map making tools that are used by agencies, academics, nonprofits, grassroots and youth groups. Find my blogs at GreenMap.org/news and social @GreenMap or @green.map. 

Moving from mapping to making green sites, I am also involved in projects designed to help NYC address urgent climate challenges. I was on the development team for NYC’s first certified Net Zero Passive House building in 2015. Energy, climate, cycling and community green infrastructure are themes, as seen at http://WendyBrawer.com.

Through my design consultancy and in partnership, I share my outlook on resiliency, collaboration, mapping, and sustainable design, touching on capacity building, energy, waste reduction and urban interventions at dozens of conferences and universities where I have spoked or keynoted.  I was appointed to the Trust for Governors Island in 2023. I’ve been a TED Resident, the Designer in Residence at the Smithsonian National Design Museum and an Unte Visionary. My projects have won the Papanek Social Design Award, the US National Sustainability Award & more.