We are landscape architects and designers committed to advancing environmental stewardship through research, advocacy, and implementation of nature-based solutions. By fostering awareness, influencing policy, and enabling action, we empower our community to protect biodiversity and combat climate change for a sustainable future.

The ILASLA Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee is committed to promoting biodiversity and climate action through a collaborative approach centered on research and education, professional advocacy, and tools for implementation for our members.

▪       We aim to leverage our expertise and professional networks to provide a clearing house of timely research to educate our members and facilitate innovative design solutions aimed at preserving and enhancing biodiversity, mitigating climate change impacts, and fostering resilient landscapes.

▪       Through strategic advocacy efforts, we strive to raise awareness, mobilize support, and influence policymakers, industry leaders, and communities to prioritize biodiversity conservation and climate action in landscape architecture practices and decision-making processes.

▪       Furthermore, we are dedicated to translating research findings and advocacy efforts into tangible action by providing landscape architects and designers with everyday tools to implement resilient, climate-positive landscape projects that promote biodiversity, sequester carbon, and enhance ecosystem services.

By championing the integration of biodiversity and climate action into landscape architecture, we envision a future where our built environments harmoniously coexist with nature, contributing to the well-being of both people and the planet.

ASLA Resources

• ASLA Climate Action Plan (2022-2025)
• ASLA Biodiversity & Climate Action Webinar Series
• ASLA Climate and Biodiversity Action Network Events
• IFLA Climate Action Commitment
• Great Lakes Region Climate Action Seminar

Regional Organizations

• Chicago Wilderness Hub
• Carbon Leadership Forum – Chicago
• AIA Chicago Committee on the Environment + 2030 Commitment
• Illinois Environmental Council
• Climate Action Museum
• The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation 

Case Studies & Other Resources

• LAF Landscape Performance Series
• US Climate Resilience Toolkit & Case Studies
• EPA Case Studies for Climate Change Adaptation
• Project Drawdown
• NOAA Climate Resilience Case Studies

Tools and Calculators

• Pathfinder – Carbon Calculator by Climate Positive Design
• Terrapass – Carbon Footprint Calculator
• iTree – Tree Benefit Tool

Books

• The Carbon Almanac
• LID A Design Manual for Urban Areas
• Now Is the Time for Trees

• Native Plant ID on the Prairie Field Session
• Adapting To Climate Change (Part IV): Carbon Sequestration Panel with APA Illinois