Christine Mondor describes herself as an eternal optimist regarding the power of design in shaping sustainable cities. And that's what she has been working on for the past 15 years. She is using the power of design as an architect, educator and activist to shape places, processes and organizations nationally and internationally. As a principal of the architecture firm … [Read more...] about The power of design.
Climate
Investing in nature.
The natural environment and real estate investment When it comes to housing, for many years, concerns about the natural environment were low on the list of priorities for developers. Community-builders saw the natural environment as a backdrop for their projects rather than a critical element in their design and function. Think gated developments set within lush valleys or … [Read more...] about Investing in nature.
Make your impact count.
Impact investing is having a moment. Investors as well-heeled as Bill Gates, and as humble as your average college kid, are trying to find ways to "save the world" while also generating returns. This newfound desire to use the markets to affect change is a positive development, but like any other investment, impact or not, there are risks involved. Making the wrong decisions … [Read more...] about Make your impact count.
Let’s change our mindset.
Sandy Wiggins works at the intersection of three movements – green building, new economies, and thriving resilient communities. His company, Consilience, is a national consultancy with a mission to build environmentally, socially and economically sustainable buildings and communities. After decades as a traditional and highly successful developer, Sandy reinvented himself … [Read more...] about Let’s change our mindset.
Looking past the bottom line.
The worlds of property development and environmental sustainability are becoming inextricably linked. Historically, developers and environmental advocates were at odds with each other. They fought (and still fight) over hot-button issues like preserving wildlife habitat, pollution and waste, density, and a whole host of other social, environmental, and political concerns … [Read more...] about Looking past the bottom line.