Examples of resource efficient development (also called low impact development) include: clustered development; orienting the building to lessen the sun’s impact; making the building “envelope” more energy efficient; using alternative energy such as solar or geo-thermal to supply part of the building’s electricity or hot water; making a cistern part of the building; using native plants to reduce watering requirements and save energy that would otherwise be used by a sprinkler system; using pervious pavement for driveways/walkways; adding green roof features; using natural daylight in work spaces; and installing Energy Star appliances.

The benefits of resource efficient development are many. Less energy is required during construction & after completion of the building (translation – lower electric bills); more green space is preserved, and there is greater carbon mitigation when trees are added or preserved; aquifer recharge and stormwater quality are improved when green roofs or permeable pavement are used; native plants require less weedkiller & pesticides; traffic congestion is reduced when people can walk or cycle to work,  stores or entertainment venues; and there is enhanced marketability, property value and resale potential of a “green” building. Many of these benefits accrue during development as well as throughout the life cycle of completed buildings.

Another long-range planning concern is ensuring an energy-secure future with affordable, reliable sources of fuel that raise no worries about harming the environment or relying on foreign sources of energy. Alternative energy products and incentives are receiving a lot of attention, and many exciting consumer options are appearing: Energy neutral or zero-energy homes; solar hot water & solar roof tiles; biofuels like ethanol; wind turbines to produce hydrogen energy; tidal power; and fuel cell technology.

Energy efficient and green building practices are clearly beneficial to the long-range future of the community – and staff will continue to examine how local governments might encourage or require energy efficient development, green building and development of alternative energies.