The AIA is strongly committed to conserving energy and promoting health and well-being through the design of sustainable communities. The Blueprint initiatives presented here provide a wealth of ideas about creating a sense of “place” by designing high-quality, diverse, mixed-use communities based on green principles. High-density development, wise use of infrastructure and community resources, walkable environments, and conservation of open spaces are important aspects in the design of safe, healthy communities.

Neighborhoods, small towns, and large cities are all involved in working toward a more sustainable built environment. The AIA, in partnership with its local, regional, and state components, is working toward developing and promoting the means to reach at least a 50% carbon emission reduction by 2010 and carbon neutral buildings by 2030.