"The techniques landscape architects use for sustainable design can translate into effective public policy," says Nancy Somerville, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA. "These strategies can save billions of dollars on infrastructure, create vibrant and healthy neighborhoods, preserve our natural resources, and reduce global warming if Congress acts soon."
Some specific policy recommendations are:
• Encourage sustainable site planning for new communities and buildings of all types.
• Require open space and parkland preservation as a component of all public and private development, from small, site-specific projects to regional land-use plans.
• Encourage the research and use of native and adapted vegetation in the built environment to take full advantage of the most appropriate plants to increase air quality, conserve water sources, and sequester carbon dioxide.
• Encourage the use of green roofs on public and private buildings of all types.
• Enact policies that support design of safe transportation routes for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and those who use wheelchairs.
Learn more about landscape architecture at (www.asla.org).
