MEDC MiPlace’s Post

Historic preservation is inherently a sustainable practice. A commonly quoted phrase, “the greenest building is the one that’s already built,” succinctly expresses the relationship between preservation and sustainability. The repair and retrofitting of existing and historic buildings is considered by many to be the ultimate recycling project, and focusing on historic buildings has added benefits for the larger community. Traditional materials are generally durable, the continued maintenance of historic buildings and features relies on local craftsmen rather than replacement parts, and these structures generally make up the heart of our towns and cities. For decades, preservation programs like the Historic Preservation Fund and the Historic Preservation Tax Incentives have demonstrated that whole communities can be revitalized by rehabilitating individual buildings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy Information Administration, buildings are the largest consumers of energy in the nation. In recognition of the role the built environment plays in energy use, Technical Preservation Services develops guidance and technical information about how historic properties can incorporate sustainable practices to reduce energy consumption, while maintaining those characteristics that make historic properties significant: https://lnkd.in/g9qNMHeG

Folding nature into development at the design level is a crucial step in the UK’s journey towards replenishing our depleted biodiversity and green spaces, as Ian Houlston from LDA Design advocates in his article for Environmental Scientist. Read Ian’s perspective on new nature-friendly developments in the design and building sectors here: https://lnkd.in/evKBM8cT

Creating access to green spaces is important element of social health and wellbeing. Having explorable natural areas throughout communities increases quality of life for the people and native species who live there. Weaving green infrastructure into construction design helps promote a sustainable hydrology and brings natural elements into built areas; learn more about the benefits https://lnkd.in/gNpiJbpe

♻️🌱 At #WEF25, Holcim explored how circular construction and nature-positive strategies can reshape buildings and cities. Discover the key takeaways 👇

Recognizing Earth Day ~ the greenest building is the one already built. 🌎♻️🌱 Historic preservation is a leader in sustainable practices. Repurposing historic buildings creates significantly less "embodied energy" when compared to the energy costs needed to create new construction. As noted by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, "reinvestment in historic districts and communities also promotes reuse of existing infrastructure and supports areas that generally are walkable and have good transit access options." In line with other conservation initiatives, reusing our existing historic built environment can play a key role in sustaining a healthy planet. For more information, please see: “The Greenest Building: Quantifying the Environmental Value of Building Reuse,” (Washington, D.C.: Preservation Green Lab, National Trust for Historic Preservation, 2011). Photo courtesy of National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Cities are increasingly prioritizing landscapes and outdoor spaces to address societal needs. In this SITES course discover the rating systems promoting nature-based design interventions and green infrastructure. https://bit.ly/4fqViF6

📣 Introducing 'The Nature of Building: Biodiversity & the Built Environment' part one, our latest digital series in collaboration with The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) exploring the complex interplay between human-made structures and the natural world, revealing groundbreaking strategies to reduce the ecological impact of building and development. Our founder, Max Smith, says: “Our mission is to spotlight the intersection of innovation and sustainability in the built environment, driving forward solutions that not only meet today’s needs but protect the planet for future generations. The goal is to not only inform but to ignite a movement toward greener, more responsible development that safeguards our planet for generations to come." Watch the series at 🔗 https://lnkd.in/g9XxqBGQ AtkinsRéalis NatureSpace Partnership Morgan Sindall Construction #TheNatureOfBuilding #BiodiversityInDesign #EcoBuilding #NetZeroDesign #NaturePositiveBuildings #BuiltEnvironmentImpact #SustainableArchitecture #GreenConstruction #BiodiversityAwareness #EcologicalDesign

♻🌳 Embracing circular construction principles alongside nature-positive approaches can lead to new social, environmental and economic value creation. 🤝 At #WEF25, we brought together stakeholders from industry, governments, investors, urban planners and other sectors to discuss the new nature of buildings and cities. 👇 Here are some key takeaways from the event. 🔗 For more on integrating nature in our cities, read the new report produced together with IUCN: https://lnkd.in/er-5zGcW #BuildingProgress #Nature #Biodiversity #SustainableConstruction

In the midst of the concrete greyness of modern cities, urban green spaces represent havens of peace and tranquility for citizens tired of city frenzy. In this article, we will explore the concept of "Oases in the City" and how the creation of green spaces in urban areas can contribute to the quality of life of residents and environmental sustainability.

In the midst of the concrete greyness of modern cities, urban green spaces represent havens of peace and tranquility for citizens tired of city frenzy. In this article, we will explore the concept of "Oases in the City" and how the creation of green spaces in urban areas can contribute to the quality of life of residents and environmental sustainability.