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.

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths
Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.

Defunct Pittsburgh Power Plant to Become Residential Tower
A decommissioned steam heat plant will be redeveloped into almost 100 affordable housing units.

Trump Prompts Restructuring of Transportation Research Board in “Unprecedented Overreach”
The TRB has eliminated more than half of its committees including those focused on climate, equity, and cities.

Amtrak Rolls Out New Orleans to Alabama “Mardi Gras” Train
The new service will operate morning and evening departures between Mobile and New Orleans.
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.
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
Custer County Colorado
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont