Eco-conscious consumers seeking like-minded builders are waiting for the industry to catch up.
Despite increasing demand for environmentally friendly remodeling projects, there are still not enough contractors to go around in many cities. Inquiries to Build It Green, a nonprofit organization that provides free advice to homeowners in the San Francisco area, have increased 750 percent in the last three years. Yet, finding architects and contractors who know their way around green building materials can be difficult.
And once you find one, what does it mean? For some, green means increasing a home’s energy efficiency, while for others it refers to using sustainable products, while for others it means ensuring better indoor air quality. Fortunately, there are a growing number of city and regional programs to share advice on undertaking green building projects.
FULL STORY: When Building ‘Green,’ It’s Still Tough to Find a Builder
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Paris Voters Approve More Car-Free Streets
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo says the city will develop a plan to close 500 streets to car traffic and add new bike and pedestrian infrastructure after a referendum on the proposal passed with 66 percent of the vote.
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.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service