"Sustainability is basically a concept about the interconnectedness of the environment, the economy, and social equity. It is a journey - a path forward - through which we demonstrate responsibility for our future legacy. It is a vision - an aspiration - for a better life for our children and our children's children." LANL Sustainable Design Guide, Dec 2002

Community Benefits

At the community level, the social benefits of sustainable design include knowledge transfer, improved environmental quality, neighborhood restoration, and reduced health risks from pollutants associated with building energy use. Other benefits include:

• Less wind and water erosion during construction.
• Reduced stormwater runoff and watershed pollution.
• Less demand on the community infrastructure for utilities.