Biodiversity is one of Earth’s most valuable assets—according to a report by the World Economic Forum more than 50% of global GDP, or $44 trillion in economic value, depends on natural resources. "Biodiversity" is a short form "biological diversity," referring to the variety of all living species and their ecosystems.

Any project with a landscape can support this critical work. Nature-based solutions in the SITES v2 rating system are key to supporting a healthy, biodiverse future. As a comprehensive guide to landscape development, SITES certification for sustainable landscape development is uniquely positioned to address the primary biodiversity threats and to guide property owners, developers, designers and others in prioritizing biodiversity within their projects.

More than 315 registered and certified SITES projects—spanning 20 countries, 31 U.S. states and the District of Columbia—are focusing on enhancing biodiversity. Covering 1.26 billion square feet, these projects range from university campuses, hotels and resorts, government facilities, and public parks to commercial headquarters and mixed-use developments.

Learn more about the future of real estate and biodiversity through a new resource from the SITES and LEED certification perspective: Real estate and biodiversity.