ULI book urges 'smart-growth development'

A new book published by the Urban Land Institute underlines how key changes in property development could positively impact climate change. The book entitled Growing Cooler: The Evidence on Urban Development and Climate Change is written by top urban planning professionals and warns that if sprawling development continues to force us behind the wheel, the projected 59% rise in the total distance driven between 2005 and 2030 will far exceed any gains made by increased vehicle efficiency and low-carbon fuels. Compact, or 'smart-growth' development - embracing land-use mix and pedestrian-friendly design - reduces driving from 20% to 40%, more in some cases say the authors.

As well as documenting market research into future housing demand, the book cites real estate projections showing that two-thirds of development planned for completion by 2050 is not yet built, so the potential for change is huge. 'Clearly, the development industry has a key role in the search for solutions to offset the impact of climate change,' says the Institute's senior resident fellow William Hudnut. 'Well-planned communities give residents the option to walk, bike or take transit. Spending less time behind the wheel will benefit our health, our pocketbooks and the environment.'

But even the best-intentioned developers are up against government regulations, government budgets and transportation policies that still favour urban sprawl. The book sets out changes in all three areas to make green neighbourhoods both available and affordable.