What keywords should I use to get the best hits for references on sustainable design in my industry?
You want to include keywords that will most likely return results that address social equity, environmental impact, and economic responsibility of your topic. It may be possible to find all 3 dimensions of sustainability addressed in one source, but more likely you will find 2 or fewer and will need to identify multiple sources to address all triple measures. Start with keywords such as sustainability, sustainable design, environmental justice, human ecology, corporate responsibility, sustainable architecture, sustainable materials, sustainable development, green design, sustainable engineering, green movement, environmentalism, social responsibility, environmental health, life cycle analysis, indoor air quality. Add combinations of these terms with the product or process of your interest, such as sustainable flooring, paint, toys, fabrics, etc,
The following sites offer databases that are available through the library and other sources for your search on sustainable design topics that include environmental, social, and economic impacts.
Databases are catalogues that offer a directory of journals, magazines, books, websites, and other sources of information through either a proprietary (i.e., fees or permissions are required for access) or free access arrangement. Searching databases requires the use of key words in different combinations to access the most relevant information.
Lana Bittman, Assistant Professor Head of Electronic and Serials Resources, Gladys Marcus Library
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