Companies are realizing that they can save money with green office buildings.
"Green building is a growing trend, in part because companies have realized they can actually save money by making a few environmentally friendly upgrades..The USGBC developed its rating system--known as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED--in 2000, and since then 715 buildings have achieved some level of certification...Energy efficiency and water conservation are both important parts of the rankings. But buildings can also receive points for using native plants in landscaping instead of just laying down sod." Other strategies include limiting waste, recycling, rooftop gardens, and the use of natural light.
FULL STORY: America's Greenest Buildings

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.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
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