ABSTRACT
In general, site planning should be conducive to reducing unavoidable impacts. Besides the actions listed as key recommendations, the designer/developer should: cluster buildings or build attached units to preserve open space and wildlife habitats, avoid especially sensitive areas including wetlands, and keep roads and service lines short. Leave the pristine areas untouched and look for areas that have been previously damaged to build on. Situate buildings to benefit from existing vegetation: trees on the east and west sides of a building can dramatically reduce cooling loads. Hedgerows and shrubbery can help channel cool breezes into the building.
