Israel has announced plans to require green building standards on new constructions, but some say the requirements don't go far enough.
"Dr. Nitzan Eyal, who coordinates environmental issues at the Standards Institute, said that the Israeli standard on green construction, which aims to increase environmental awareness of entrepreneurs, contractors and residents, by promoting use of a combination of technologies and construction and environmental planning instruments, is a voluntary standard."
"'Five office buildings, a Kfar Saba neighborhood and additional residential units are currently being constructed in compliance with the standard,' Dr. Eyal said. 'It is imperative that the state and the IDF ensure that construction is in compliance with this standard.'"
"Architect and environmental activist Rafi Rich criticizes the Israeli standard, which he says is far less demanding than those prevailing worldwide."
"'I'm concerned about providing economic incentives for anyone who simply meets this standard,' he said, adding that Israel must set clear regulation and a high standard in keeping with international levels."
FULL STORY: Knesset promoting incentives, tax breaks for 'green' building
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.
Amtrak Cutting Jobs, Funding to High-Speed Rail
The agency plans to cut 10 percent of its workforce and has confirmed it will not fund new high-speed rail projects.
Ohio Forces Data Centers to Prepay for Power
Utilities are calling on states to hold data center operators responsible for new energy demands to prevent leaving consumers on the hook for their bills.
MARTA CEO Steps Down Amid Citizenship Concerns
MARTA’s board announced Thursday that its chief, who is from Canada, is resigning due to questions about his immigration status.
Silicon Valley ‘Bike Superhighway’ Awarded $14M State Grant
A Caltrans grant brings the 10-mile Central Bikeway project connecting Santa Clara and East San Jose closer to fruition.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Caltrans
City of Fort Worth
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie