Green Infrastructure: Sustainability Principles
Green infrastructure – a community’s environmental resources, recreational spaces, and cultural landscapes – reinforce other types of community infrastructure including water and transportation. It creates aesthetic and open space amenities that balance developed areas of a city.
Integrate Green Infrastructure Elements within Municipal Plans
Green infrastructure is compatible with almost every area of municipal government. Serious consideration should always be given to how green infrastructure can be used to support land use, water, transportation, economic development, and other community goals.
Prioritize Environmentally Sensitive Land
Green infrastructure functions are also well matched with the conservation and preservation of natural systems (forests, water bodies, etc).
Integrate Green Infrastructure Elements within the Built Environment
In addition to dedicated green spaces, green infrastructure elements should be incorporated widely throughout communities in order to maximize environmentally beneficial impacts.
Ensure Accessibility for All
Green infrastructure can often support recreational uses, and as such offers opportunities to improve a community’s quality of life and healthy activities. To be a true community asset, qualified green infrastructure must be accessible to everyone, including those interested in both active and passive outdoor pursuits.
