On Tuesday, the UK announced the creation of a green infrastructure program, intended to press planners and deveopers to infuse spaces with greenery. Writes Peter Walker, the benefits are beyond aesthetic--they're economic as well.
"While the green infrastructure partnership, launched on Tuesday morning, promises no new cash, it brings cross-government support and the backing of influential groups such as the Town and Country Planning Association and the Landscape Institute, as well as a series of developers and housing groups."
"Despite the lack of new government investment the project is 'more than an aspiration', insisted the environment minister Richard Benyon, who formally launched the scheme.
'It can sound a bit high blown, or airy fairy, but the point is that it does make a difference in many ways. This is now starting to be properly understood and appreciated in financial terms. Research shows the health benefits of people being connected to nature.'"
FULL STORY: UK government launches scheme to boost green spaces in urban areas

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?

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

House Moves to Rescind California’s Emissions Standards
The state has been allowed to set its own emissions goals, including a mandate to transition to electric or zero-emissions vehicles by 2035.

Portland Proposal Would Suspend Development Fees to Spur Housing Construction
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson announced their policy plan Thursday, with the goal to jumpstart housing construction.

Honolulu Community College Celebrates Culture and Sustainability
Honolulu Community College brought together more than 320 students, staff, and community members for a day of Hawaiian cultural activities, music, and sustainability-focused learning at its annual Hoʻolauleʻa celebration.
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