The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) have released the “Local Leaders in Sustainability” report, which finds that the most attractive incentives for greening American communities are also the most basic: tax incentives, density/floor area ratio bonuses and expedited permitting.
The report also found that communities should select incentives based primarily on a local government’s financial situation and desired impact on the construction industry. In addition, the simpler the policy, the more likely it will be implemented successfully, the report concludes.
“This report should serve as a guidepost for many communities throughout the country that are looking for ways to implement green initiatives but fear the expense involved,” said AIA president Jeff Potter, FAIA. “Local governments in recent years have already implemented numerous ’green incentives.’ These programs have met with varying levels of success. This report seeks to analyze those initiatives and provide best practice examples.”
The Local Leaders report analyzes many green incentive initiatives instituted by localities across the country in recent years in order to provide best practice examples and a focused analysis on the green incentives that work for different communities. The report also highlights innovative green architecture and includes interviews with the architects and local officials that are making it possible. For more information visit: www.aia.org/localleaders.
