Environmental Considerations in Land Development
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Land Development course at Greenwich School of Business and Finance. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Brownfield #
Refers to previously developed or contaminated land that requires environmental cleanup before redevelopment. It often contains industrial and commercial facilities or sites that are underused, vacant, or derelict.
Greenfield #
Undeveloped land, usually in a rural or suburban area, that has not been previously used for construction or development. Greenfield sites are typically free of pollution and environmental contamination.
Land Use Planning #
The process of determining how land should be used and developed to balance the needs of the community, protect the environment, and promote sustainable growth.
Smart Growth #
A development strategy that encourages compact, walkable, and mixed-use development, while preserving open space and natural resources. Smart growth aims to reduce car dependence, increase public transportation use, and promote sustainable communities.
Sustainable Development #
Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable development considers environmental, economic, and social factors in decision-making.
Zoning #
The division of land into different districts or zones, each with its own regulations and restrictions on land use and development. Zoning is used to promote orderly and efficient land use, protect public health and safety, and preserve the character of a community.
Urban Sprawl #
The uncontrolled and rapid expansion of urban areas, often resulting in the loss of open space, increased traffic, and longer commutes. Urban sprawl can also lead to environmental degradation and social inequality.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) #
A process of evaluating the potential environmental impacts of a proposed development project. An EIA assesses the positive and negative effects of the project on the environment, and identifies measures to mitigate or avoid negative impacts.
Endangered Species Act (ESA) #
A federal law in the United States that protects threatened and endangered species and their habitats. The ESA requires developers to consult with federal agencies to ensure that their projects do not harm listed species.
Wetlands #
Areas of land that are saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally, and support unique plant and animal communities. Wetlands provide important ecological functions, such as flood control, water filtration, and habitat for wildlife.
Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) #
A plan that outlines measures to protect and conserve the habitat of a threatened or endangered species. HCPs are often required as part of the ESA permitting process for development projects.
Mitigation Banking #
A market-based approach to mitigating the environmental impacts of development by restoring or creating wetlands, streams, or other habitats in advance of development. Mitigation banks sell credits to developers who need to offset their impacts.
Biodiversity #
The variety of life on Earth, including the diversity of genes, species, ecosystems, and landscapes. Biodiversity provides important ecological, economic, and social benefits, and is essential for sustainable development.
Carbon Footprint #
The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or activity. Reducing carbon footprints is essential for mitigating climate change.
Climate Change #
A long-term change in the average weather patterns that have come to define Earth's local and regional climates. Climate change is primarily caused by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, that increase greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable Transportation #
Transportation that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own transportation needs. Sustainable transportation includes walking, biking, public transportation, and electric or hybrid vehicles.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) #
A rating system for green buildings and neighborhoods. LEED certification recognizes sustainable design, construction, and operation practices that promote energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality.
Green Building #
A building that is designed, constructed, and operated to minimize its environmental impacts, while promoting occupant health and well-being. Green buildings use less energy, water, and resources, and generate less waste than conventional buildings.
Stormwater Management #
The practice of controlling and treating stormwater runoff to prevent pollution and flooding. Stormwater management measures include green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and bioswales, and low-impact development techniques, such as permeable pavement and rainwater harvesting.
Urban Heat Island (UHI) #
An urban area that is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas due to the concentration of buildings, pavement, and other impervious surfaces that absorb and re-radiate heat. UHIs can be mitigated through green infrastructure, such as trees and parks, and light-colored roofs and pavements.
Urban Forestry #
The practice of managing and maintaining urban trees and forests to provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. Urban forestry includes planting, pruning, and removing trees, as well as developing and implementing management plans.
Brownfields Redevelopment #
The process of cleaning up and redeveloping contaminated or underutilized land. Brownfields redevelopment can revitalize urban areas, create jobs, and increase property values, while reducing urban sprawl and preserving open space.
Green Infrastructure #
A network of natural and semi-natural features, such as parks, gardens, green roofs, and wetlands, that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. Green infrastructure can help mitigate climate change, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve air and water quality.
Sustainable Agriculture #
Agriculture that is designed to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own agricultural needs. Sustainable agriculture includes practices such as organic farming, agroforestry, and permaculture.
Urban Resilience #
The ability of an urban area to withstand, respond to, and recover from acute shocks, such as natural disasters, and chronic stresses, such as climate change and social inequality. Urban resilience requires a holistic and integrated approach to planning and development.
Urban Acupuncture #
A planning and design approach that focuses on targeted interventions, such as public art, street furniture, and small parks, to improve the quality of life in urban areas. Urban acupuncture aims to create vibrant and livable communities, while promoting social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
Green Jobs #
Jobs that contribute to preserving or restoring the environment, while providing decent wages and benefits. Green jobs can be found in sectors such as renewable energy, green building, and sustainable transportation.
Green Economy #
An economy that is designed to reduce environmental risks and ecological scarcities, while promoting sustainable development and improving social equity. A green economy includes sectors such as renewable energy, green building, and sustainable transportation.
Climate Change Mitigation #
Efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow the pace of climate change. Climate change mitigation measures include reducing energy use, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting renewable energy.
Climate Change Adaptation #
Efforts to adjust to the impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise, increased flooding, and more frequent and intense heatwaves. Climate change adaptation measures include building sea walls, improving stormwater management, and developing early warning systems.
Carbon Sequestration #
The process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide, a potent greenhouse gas, to reduce its impact on climate change. Carbon sequestration can be achieved through natural processes, such as photosynthesis, or technological means, such as carbon capture and storage.
Renewable Energy #
Energy that is generated from sources that are replenished naturally, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy. Renewable energy is a key component of a sustainable energy system and can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy Efficiency #
Using less energy to perform the same task or function. Energy efficiency measures include improving insulation, using energy-efficient appliances and lighting, and promoting public transportation.
Smart Cities #
Cities that use technology and data to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and livability of urban areas. Smart cities include features such as intelligent transportation systems, smart grids, and energy-efficient buildings.
Circular Economy : #
Circular Economy: