New member resource: Enhancing biodiversity through design

The report is part of a new series of resources available exclusively to USGBC organizational members.

Our connection to nature is undeniable, and we face a critical decision point. Our choices today will determine whether we embrace regenerative design strategies that restore biodiversity or continue down a path that threatens over one million species with extinction. The built environment plays a significant role in this challenge, with traditional landscaping practices-often focused on aesthetics-driving biodiversity loss, wasting water and increasing carbon emissions.

As urban areas expand, actions such as adopting biodiversity-friendly landscapes, sourcing sustainable materials and making responsible land-use decisions have become more urgent now than ever. Our new member-exclusive report, "Nature's Blueprint: Enhancing Biodiversity Through Design," is a comprehensive guide to incorporating biodiversity into your projects.

Key insights from the report

The report found that

• Biodiverse environments can sequester up to 15% more carbon than monocultures, helping cities reduce their carbon footprint while enhancing climate resilience.
• Traditional grass lawns may be visually appealing but require excessive water, contribute to carbon emissions and displace native species. They offer little ecological value and are unsustainable in the long term.
• Environments rich in biodiversity support physical and mental health, improve air quality and foster stronger community bonds.
• The implementation of nature-based solutions aligns with decarbonization goals and enhances ESG reporting. These strategies can also boost property values and deliver long-term cost savings through reduced water and energy usage.
• Certification programs such as LEED and SITES provide actionable frameworks for protecting ecosystems, using native plants and enhancing project biodiversity.

How members can leverage the report

Based on the report, you can

• Use the metrics provided in the report to showcase biodiversity's environmental, health and financial advantages to your clients.
• Incorporate biodiversity metrics into your ESG reporting to highlight your commitment to sustainability and give your business a competitive edge.
• Dive into the resources and training opportunities in the report to deepen your knowledge of biodiversity-focused design.
• Apply the biodiversity strategies outlined to create resilient, biodiverse landscapes that benefit the environment and the community.
• Align your projects with LEED and SITES frameworks to enhance site performance and earn valuable credits in Sustainable Sites and Water Efficiency categories.

"Nature's Blueprint: Enhancing Biodiversity Through Design" is essential for professionals looking to integrate nature into urban design and to drive impactful change. By embracing biodiversity, we can create urban landscapes that benefit the environment, enhance human well-being and support long-term financial success.

Future reports

The report is part of a series of resources rolled out monthly and available exclusively to USGBC member organizations. The report series offers concise, actionable content for busy professionals. Each report will focus on a critical topic in a simple, easy-to-digest format. Future report topics include

• Strategies to persuade clients of the benefits of green building.
• Green building products and LEED: How do you talk about your green building products?
• The circular economy and waste reduction strategies.
• Navigating funding and incentives for sustainable projects.
• Fostering social equity and engagement in your green projects.
• How AI is revolutionizing green building practices.

Don't miss out-download "Nature's Blueprint: Enhancing Biodiversity Through Design" and stay tuned for more members-only reports.

Become a member of USGBC to access the report.

Need help or have a question about your membership? Connect with your organization's USGBC account manager.

Read the full report

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