NEW YORK, N.Y. — A new interactive map allows users to find green businesses and activists around the globe, or find regions that have received or desperately need some "green action."

Sundance Channel launched on Wednesday the "Eco-mmunity Map" with custom Google map technology. It's the second stage of its online environmental forum that allows users to network and discuss environmental problems.

"The public is increasingly aware of ecological issues," said Christopher Barry, senior vice president of the Sundance Channel's Digital Media and Business Strategy, in a statement. "People are looking for forums to share information, exchange ideas and meet others who are concerned about the planet's future."

Various symbols designate each location. For instance, there's a yellow star that represents Cards of Africa in Rwanda. The business teaches orphans to make handcrafted greeting cards. A certified Fair Trade business, Cards from Africa uses recycled paper and pays workers an income that is three to five times higher than the average Rwandan.

Or you can travel virtually to Peru, where the Quelccaya Glacier is retreating by up to 30 meters each year. That's 10 tens faster than it did 20 or 30 years ago. A red flag on the map indicates the site needs green action.

The map lets users plug in themselves, a business, an area that received or needs action, or a green attraction or event — a concept welcomed by Mountain View-based Google.

"The Eco-mmunity Map captures the essence of what we hope our Google geospatial solutions offer - reliable and scalable interactive platforms for individuals to share visual and geographic information that is important to them and that helps them change their community, their city and their world for the better," said Noah Doyle, product manager for Google Maps for Enterprise, in a statement.

Sundance Channel also announced "Eco-mmunity" users can use a free, renewable-energy powered email service through ThinkHost.

For more information, visit www.sundancechannel.com/map.