The Value of Green Infrastructure for Urban Climate Adaptation

In this paper the Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP) provides information on the costs and benefits of “green” infrastructure solutions for bolstering local adaptation to climate change. The report provides examples of a variety of approaches to incorporating green practices as well as the benefits to urban communities, such as improvements in land value, quality of life, public health, hazard mitigation, and regulatory compliance.  A selection of green infrastructure solutions are evaluated for their performance and benefits, discerning their value for climate adaptation. Eco-roofs, green alleys and streets, and urban forestry techniques are examined in detail along with their respective economic cost and benefits. In addition, the report describes managerial, institutional, and market-based approaches to climate resilience, in which local governments can use incentives to lower climate risks and encourage adaptive behavior.  Select examples of green infrastructure costs, performance, and benefits from pioneering cities are provided in detail as well.

Publication Date: February 2011

Authors or Affiliated Users:

• Josh Foster
• Ashley Lowe
• Steve Winkelman

Related Organizations:

• Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP)

Sectors:

• Land use and built environment
• Urban

Resource Category:

• Solutions

Resource Types:

• Best practice

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