A key part of the SITES framework is enhancing physical, mental and social well-being as a result of human interaction with nature. SITES projects also provide education that promotes the understanding of natural systems and offers opportunities for community involvement and advocacy.
In honor of Earth Month, we’re celebrating three SITES projects that bring us back to nature:
SITES is a comprehensive rating system designed to distinguish sustainable landscapes, measure their performance and elevate their value.
SITES-certified projects across the country are strengthening communities by educating them on sustainable site practices and the benefits of being in nature. Always evolving through continued research and experience, SITES projects transform the way people interact with the built environment.
Learn about SITES during a two-part course series at the 2018 Boston Landscape Architecture Conference + Xpo on March 26. This event brings together leaders from landscape architecture practice and academia, architecture and planning, horticulture and engineering and municipal agencies for a full day of workshops and panel discussions.
SITES helps foster the development of green infrastructure, which is defined as any practice that uses or replicates natural systems to achieve a desired outcome. Green infrastructure practices (e.g., green roofs, rain gardens, bioswales, pervious pavement) are now being used by cities around the world. By looking to nature for guidance, SITES helps project teams in creating environments that improve water quality, control erosion, mitigate flooding and provide wildlife habitat.
Green infrastructure is increasingly used to address climate impact issues, such as stormwater runoff, and to provide myriad benefits to a community. The SITES Rating System facilitates green infrastructure planning to create beautiful outdoor spaces that are functional and resilient.
The SITES rating system is a way to mitigate the effects of climate change that are impacting our world and way of life. The natural systems on which we depend are tied into climate, and any sustained change affects food production, availability and use of water, fresh air and much more.
Education @USGBC is your one-stop shop for growing your knowledge about green building and sustainability, and that includes SITES. From guidance on earning your SITES AP credential to continuing education that helps you maintain it, you will find resources there to support your learning.
Feature image: Dell Medical District at University of Texas at Austin.
