Decarbonizing Landscape Architecture: Resources for a Low-Carbon Practice
As landscape architects, we play a vital role in shaping resilient and sustainable environments.
Decarbonizing landscape architecture practices is not just an environmental imperative but also a professional responsibility. By taking proactive steps to reduce our carbon footprints, we can lead by example and inspire broader change within our communities and beyond. Read the September 2024 issue of LP Magazine on Decarbonizing Design.
The following resources have been compiled to support firms and practitioners in reducing their carbon footprints, from conducting greenhouse gas inventories to adopting low-carbon strategies in day-to-day operations. Explore the following links to begin or advance your organization’s decarbonization journey.
American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Resources
- Towards Zero Emission Business Operations: A Landscape Architect’s Guide to Reducing the Climate Impacts of Offices
- Collaborating with Industry Partners on Climate Action and Biodiversity: A Guide to Conversations Among Landscape Architects, Vendors and Product Manufacturers
Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) Resources
- Climate Positive Design Guidelines. Volume 2. Organisation guide to Climate Positive
- Also available, a recording of the AILA webinar: How to make your business climate positive
Landscape Institute (LI) Resources
BMO Climate Smart
The CSLA is committed to supporting its members in this journey through resources, partnerships, and advocacy. As a CSLA member, you, your firm or organization are eligible for a 15% reduced rate on services with BMO Climate Smart for a limited time (offer expires April 2025). The Climate Smart program includes software, training and sustainability adviser-support to enable businesses and organizations to start their transition to net zero by measuring, reducing and reporting their corporate carbon footprint. To learn more, visit their website.

Tools for calculating the climate impact of materials, plants and landscape plans
Understanding the climate impact of landscape projects is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making informed, sustainable choices. The tools listed below help landscape architects assess the carbon footprint of materials, plants, and overall landscape plans. From calculating embodied carbon in products to evaluating the carbon sequestration potential of green spaces, these tools enable practitioners to integrate carbon considerations into the design process.
Pathfinder, by Climate Positive Design
Landscape Carbon Calculator, by Landscape Analytic Solutions
Carbon Conscience App, by Sasaki
i-Tree, by the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service
CSLA and Component Association Publications on Climate Change
Click on the covers below to view the publications.
A number of resources are also available by geographic region:
Atlantic Provinces - Québec - Ontario - Prairie Provinces - North - British Columbia