Global climate change, polluted waters, and lack of open space are just a few of the issues facing our communities today. Community planners — tasked with seeing the big picture and thinking about the long term — are integral to addressing both economic competitiveness and environmental issues in our cities, towns, and neighborhoods. Through education, plan making, tax policies, capital investments, development review, and other planning actions, planners have opportunities to help create green communities by reducing the impact of development on the natural environment and improving environmental quality for residents.

Working with a global network of research fellows and partner institutions, our staff undertakes research related to green community planning, such as climate change, energy, land conservation, urban forestry, sustainable economic development, green infrastructure, and watershed protection. Our approach is multidisciplinary and collaborative, involving experts from several fields.

Download the National Centers for Planning brochure (pdf)

Our work advances green communities through:

Research

The Green Communities Research Center conducts research on best practices in planning for green communities.

Outreach

The Green Communities Research Center is engaged in outreach efforts that increase awareness of issues related to green communities.

Education

APA provides workshops, seminars, and other educational opportunities related to green communities for planners and allied professionals.

Policy

APA conducts policy relevant research, develops policy guides, and advocates for public policies that support good planning and improve communities.

Resources

From policy guides, reports and publications, to online courses and podcasts, APA has a variety of resources to assist planners.

About APA

APA is the premier nonprofit education and research organization devoted to urban, suburban, regional, and rural planning. Through serial publications, research monographs, online resources, and distance and face-to-face training, we reach frontline professionals and decision makers.

With more than 40,000 members and established partnerships with numerous academic, nonprofit, and public institutions, APA is connected to the innovative thinking and the practical realities of the planning profession.