We’ve all heard of the LEED program whereby buildings are rated according to how “green” they are,  in other words how well does the building coincide with its natural environment and what techniques were used to limit its effect on the planet.   No matter your politics or belief in “climate change”, the reality is that the “greening” of industry continues without pause.  Now, in conjunction with ASLA, The Lady Bird Johnson Foundation, and the U.S. Botanic Garden there is a new rating system that will consider the “Sustainability” of the landscapes around buildings.    Called “Sustainable Sites Initiative”, this program aims to do what the LEED program has done with the building industry by setting parameters for sustainable landscapes and to encourage more sustainable landscaping throughout the country.  According to USA Today, Nov. 5 2009, “The rating will measure several criteria. They may include planting trees in a parking lot or paving with permeable materials to minimize heat and storm-water runoff. Or landscaping with native plants to reduce maintenance, irrigation and use of pesticides.”  The system will rate according to “stars” with 4 stars being the highest.  It can be assumed that appropriate plants for each site would have to be of great importance and that speaks highly to the value our industry can add to such a rating system. 

Being in the green industry, I think we can all take pride that our “wares” are considered essential to enhancing a healthy planet for us, our children and our grandchildren.   Here at Royal Crest we specialize in drought tolerant and native plant material that can help such projects become a reality.  With our full spectrum of native plant material grown and brokered, you can turn to our company for a steady supply of this increasingly important plant category.  Saw Palmetto, Bald Cypress, Sabal Minor, Needle Palms, Yucca, the list gets very long.  Consider Royal Crest as you posture your firm to take advantage of this new “Sustainable Sites Initiative”.  

On this blog, I will work to maintain information on this new “Sustainable Sites Initiative” to keep our customers informed on the ins and outs of this exciting new movement.