US landscape architects call for Climate and Biodiversity Commitment
Support for a Climate and Biodiversity Commitment Program for landscape architects is high among members of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), according to an April 2025 survey.
Of 230 respondents, 77% expressed the need for a program to drive greater accountability and structured action toward climate and biodiversity goals. Similar to initiatives in related fields, such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2030 Commitment, the program would require tracking project impacts and publishing annual progress reports.
More than a third of participants said they are investing in meeting climate goals, prioritising staff training and the use of low-emission materials. 23% of respondents have their own action plans in place.
Respondents noted challenges in knowledge and resources, and collaboration with clients and partners. Only 19% of respondents felt fully equipped to meet the measurable goals outlined in the ASLA Climate Action Plan.
ASLA says it continues to explore the feasibility and structure of a new commitment program tailored to the needs of landscape architects. See the full survey findings on the ASLA website.
Street Furniture Australia is certified carbon neutral through the Climate Active program. Request our Climate Action White Paper.
New research: what shapes walkability?
Perceptions of walkability – how safe, pleasant and convenient walking feels – play a more powerful role in shaping walking behaviour than physical infrastructure alone, according to a 2025 study published in Transportation Research.
‘Perceived walkability’ is positively influenced by direct and well-connected routes, smooth and well-maintained surfaces, safety from traffic, attractive streetscapes, accessible street furniture and the presence of other people, the researchers found.
Street furniture contributes by enhancing comfort, safety and accessibility, making walking routes more attractive and usable for a range of people. Seating, lighting and signage can support rest, orientation and a sense of place – especially important for older adults, people with disabilities and those walking longer distances.
The research also found that walkability perceptions vary significantly by local context and are shaped by general attitudes towards walking, highlighting the importance of community engagement, place-based design, public education campaigns and walking activation programs.
Street Furniture Australia’s entire product range and manufacturing operation has received carbon neutral certification through Climate Active™. Achieving carbon neutral certification marks a significant milestone in our operation and the culmination of a four year long process of detailed measurement and analysis. Climate Active™ is the only Australian government-backed carbon neutral certification programme for businesses to measure, reduce, and offsets their carbon emissions. It is one of the most rigorous carbon-neutral programs in the world. An approved Emissions Reduction Strategy (ERS) is central to achieving certification through Climate Active. Street Furniture Australia has elected to use SBTi validated science-based targets to ensure their ERS is meaningful and aligns with the 2015 Paris Agreement – to limit global temperature rises to 1.5℃ above pre-industrial levels. For those emissions that can’t be …
Our Presentation Specialists, Tiffany and Melissa, bring a fun, interactive and informative workshop to your office. Accredited for 2 AILA CPD points, the experience can be tailored for landscape architects and Councils. In 30 minutes, plus Q&A, you will explore our Outdoor Dining range and enjoy delicious treats. There will also be a prize for a lucky winner (optional). Select from three catering options (also optional): Bookings can be made via the following links: Testimonials ‘The presentation content was informative, engaging, interactive and relevant. Genuinely one of the better supplier workshops! It was efficient yet insightful. The interactive nature of it enhanced engagement with the team,’ Sam Westlake, Senior Associate, Hassell, Sydney. ‘Possibly our favourite product presentation to date! Engaging, great content and appreciated the physical samples and prototypes,’ Alexa …
