How to Choose a Sustainable Neighbourhood
‘Sustainability’ has become one of the biggest buzzwords in the realm of real estate and community development. But what does it really mean? How can you – the consumer – tell the truly sustainable community from the green-washed impostor?
In a publication titled “Your Next Move,” the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provides a primer on how to choose a sustainable neighbourhood – in other words, one that meets your needs while protecting the environment and leaving an affordable legacy…a place where you and your family can find not just a home to live in but a community to thrive in. According to CMHC, a sustainable neighbourhood offers you:
A VILLAGE ATMOSPHERE: Sustainable neighbourhoods recognize that streets are for people, not just cars. The human scale and traffic-slowing features of the streets make them comfortable, safe and pleasant. Homes and shops have a friendly face to the street. Neighbours can meet along the street, and children can play safely.
A SENSE OF SAFETY: A sustainable neighbourhood is active throughout the day and evening. Homes are close to the sidewalk and have plenty of windows (“eyes on the streets”), and neighbours look out for one other. Traffic is slower, making it safe for children to play.
A HEALTHY PLACE TO LIVE IN: Walking and cycling improve your physical health, and less driving makes for cleaner air. Nature is preserved as much as possible; streams and forests left in their natural state are part of the community, with trails to make them accessible.
A NEIGHBOURHOOD THAT VALUES PRESERVATION: Because sustainable neighbourhoods use land efficiently, natural areas are preserved for wildlife and recreation.
A NEIGHBOURHOOD YOU CAN STAY IN Sustainable neighbourhoods offer a variety of housing choices. As your age, lifestyle and family dynamics change, you can find a suitable home in the same neighbourhood where you’ve put down roots.
