Sustainable Development

Southface knows that sound policy can enable a just transition to more equitable sustainable development, and is working to influence data-driven, community and stakeholder informed, innovative approaches to a more resilient, low-carbon future.

Green Affordable Housing

Southface has long worked in the affordable housing space. We believe focusing on the preservation and creation of healthy, comfortable and efficient affordable housing is critical to sustainable and resilient communities. This means achieving total affordability and high quality of life for those who are striving to maintain both in the face of rampant development and the adverse impacts of climate change.

Equity Evaluator

As a TransFormation Alliance member, Southface developed the Equity Evaluator Tool to appropriately contextualize and shape development proposals with a more focused lens on equity, community needs and affordability. The Tool is based on a robust analysis of indicators related to area, including median income, job access and walkability. The Tool can be customized to evaluate the specific needs of local communities and neighborhoods, as well as the physical form of development, and appropriate affordability across income levels.

Codes and Zoning

By partnering with state and local governments and other nonprofits to engage the community and key stakeholders, Southface is a powerful advocate for the adoption of sustainable development practices. The focus of our work includes high-performance building codes and zoning, as well as development practices that support accessible, healthy and resource-efficient buildings and communities. Initiatives include the City of Decatur High Performance Building Ordinance, the Tiny House Feasibility Study and active participation in the Georgia State Codes Advisory Committee.

Resources

Utility Avoided Cost Summary

A tool for valuing renewable energy and utility energy efficiency programs in Georgia.

Read More
Case Study

Savannah Trees Case Study

The City of Savannah has encouraged green infrastructure through a “tree lawn” requirement for some commercial developments. This helps to mitigate flooding among other negative impacts caused, in part, by the built environment and will strengthen the regenerative nature of …

Read More
Case Study

Historic Fourth Ward Park Case Study

Historic Fourth Ward Park, specifically its crowning jewel, Clear Creek Basin, has dramatically reduced flooding in the area, which was once a brownfield filled with abandoned warehouses and parking lots.

Read More