Sustainable Buildings Policy Proposal

The Edina Sustainable Building Policy will help Edina meet its greenhouse gas emission reduction goals, help new construction realize cost savings in the short and long term, and support the City's goal to create a livable city where everyone can thrive.

Cities throughout Minnesota seek to improve public health, environmental justice, and environmental and economic sustainability. Many cities are taking advantage of building-related strategies to reduce carbon emissions and waste, protect natural resources, and lower stormwater runoff. With a sustainable building policy, cities can use public financing and their authority over land use to make meaningful progress toward achieving their sustainability goals.

The Edina Sustainable Building Policy proposes to require sustainability components beyond existing code for developments receiving financial and planning incentives from the City. The requirements include complying with one sustainability rating system, which is selected from a list, as well as with an Edina-specific overlay. The overlay targets specific sustainability strategies that align with existing Edina goals and are not necessarily covered by all rating system options.