The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) has launched a new guide on the measurable benefits of green infrastructure projects. In the age of climate change, explained the ASLA, green infrastructure is a central tenet of resiliency, and one that can be implemented on any scale in any community.

“Green infrastructure includes park systems, urban forests, wildlife habitat and corridors, and green roofs and green walls,” wrote ASLA’s Dirt blog. “These infrastructure systems protect communities against flooding or excessive heat, or help to improve air and water quality, which underpin human and environmental health.”

The society goes on to explain how green infrastructure can create new wildlife habitats and public spaces while being more cost effective than typical grey infrastructure. According to ASLA, “green infrastructure absorbs and sequesters atmospheric carbon dioxide (C02); filters air and water pollutants; stabilizes soil to prevent or reduce erosion; provides wildlife habitat; decreases solar heat gain; lowers the public cost of stormwater management infrastructure and provides flood control; and reduces energy usage through passive heating and cooling. In contrast, grey infrastructure usually provides just a single benefit.”

The guide includes studies, articles, and case studies on the use of green infrastructure. It can be viewed here.