LEED standards

The LEED article was concerned with potential population growth and how that will have an impact on the planet, and its ability to survive the pressures.  The landscape and environmental conditions are the focus of LEED.  One way to conserve the environment and landscape is by looking at the ecological species community.  These communities are studied by biologists and they can be supported through correct neighborhood management.  Wetland and water body conservation is another way to manage natural areas.  If the water bodies are near neighborhoods they could be incorporated into the landscape.  Also, the LEED article emphasized the importance of key agricultural land in maintaining crop production.  Finally, flood plains and steep slopes need  to be carefully managed, as they also have impacts on water resources and water flows.

To sustain these natural areas, and to build strong communities, planners can develop existing developmental areas instead of expanding into virgin lands.  Also, they can try to minimize auto emissions in a particular region through careful use of roads and signage, and by increasing bike networks and storage areas.  Housing also needs to be located near jobs, thereby also decreasing emissions and increasing community connectivity.

Other design ideas want to implement walkable streets, compacting development instead of expanding into new regions, connecting diverse communities, including integrating communities instead of intentionally separating them, or creating regions where people feel accepted no matter what their economic status or race.  Also, access to public spaces and green spaces, including tree-lined streets, is important to ensure.

Finally, landscapers need to consider water and energy efficiency and landscape water efficiency (including parking areas).  They can also attempt to create venues for local food production, and to create buildings from recycled materials.  The Green Community Criteria included checksheets and lists of changes similar to the LEED list.  For example, it advocated for renewable energy sources and the use of recycled/salvaged materials.