What are the best methods for evaluating environmental impact in landscape design?

1 Life cycle assessment

One of the most comprehensive and widely used methods for evaluating environmental impact is life cycle assessment (LCA). LCA is a systematic approach that quantifies the environmental effects of a product or service throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to disposal or recycling. LCA can help you compare different design options, identify hotspots of environmental impact, and optimize your design for sustainability. LCA can also help you communicate the environmental benefits of your design to your clients and stakeholders.

2 Landscape performance metrics

Another method for evaluating environmental impact is landscape performance metrics. These are indicators that measure the environmental, social, and economic outcomes of landscape design, such as stormwater management, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, human health, and property value. Landscape performance metrics can help you set goals, monitor progress, and evaluate results of your design. They can also help you demonstrate the value of landscape design to the society and the environment.

3 Environmental impact assessment

A third method for evaluating environmental impact is environmental impact assessment (EIA). EIA is a process that identifies, predicts, and evaluates the potential environmental effects of a proposed project or policy, and proposes mitigation measures to avoid or reduce them. EIA is often required by law or regulations for large-scale or sensitive projects that may have significant environmental impacts, such as highways, dams, or mines. EIA can help you identify and address the environmental risks and opportunities of your design, and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.

4 Green infrastructure assessment

A fourth method for evaluating environmental impact is green infrastructure assessment. Green infrastructure is a network of natural and human-made elements that provide ecosystem services, such as water purification, climate regulation, habitat provision, and recreation. Green infrastructure assessment is a method that evaluates the performance and benefits of green infrastructure elements in your design, such as green roofs, rain gardens, urban forests, and bioswales. Green infrastructure assessment can help you integrate nature-based solutions in your design, and enhance its resilience and adaptability.

5 Sustainable sites rating system

A fifth method for evaluating environmental impact is sustainable sites rating system. This is a voluntary certification program that recognizes and rewards landscape design that meets high standards of sustainability. The program is based on a set of criteria that cover site selection, design, construction, maintenance, and monitoring of landscape projects. The criteria address various aspects of environmental impact, such as water, soil, vegetation, materials, energy, and human health and well-being. Sustainable sites rating system can help you improve your design quality, credibility, and marketability.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?