Land and Natural Development (LAND) Code: Guidelines for Sustainable Land Development

Land and Natural Development (LAND) Code: Guidelines for Sustainable Land Development offers you the information needed to make and implement decisions for ecologically sound land development. This pioneering is solidly based on peer-reviewed scientific findings and can be readily used in conjunction with LEED, EPA, and other guidelines.

The book covers a wide range of topics in full detail, including water, soil, air, living resources, energy, and materials. The authors recommend tested and proven strategies that minimize disruption of the natural processes, and also provide background information, as well as benefits for both developers and ecosystems. Protective strategies are also recommended, using a simple, non-technical language (a glossary is provided explaining all terms not in common usage).

The LAND Code features several unique characteristics, including:

• Recommendations based on peer-reviewed scientific research
• Rating scheme that weights each development and land use practice based on its environmental benefit and difficulty of implementation
• Straightforward, step-by-step system that is accessible to non-experts
• Focus on land rather than buildings
• Extensive use of photographs and diagrams to illustrate practices and procedures