We often pass through plazas, parks, and tree-lined walkways without noticing the planning that makes these places feel so welcoming. It's the thoughtful design and sustainability practices behind these spaces that set the stage for such transformations. The SITES certification program is one of the key drivers behind these transformations, going beyond the traditional focus on buildings to recognize the performance and potential of the land itself. 

Beyond refreshing our shared environments, SITES brings significant advantages for developers, from elevating property values to trimming long-term maintenance costs and adding a public-facing sustainability credential for a development. Whether it’s a busy commercial complex or a neighborhood park, SITES helps turn everyday spaces into vibrant, people-friendly places. 

What is SITES? 

SITES, short for the Sustainable SITES Initiative, is a certification program developed to spotlight the sustainability of our outdoor environments — from small pocket parks to sprawling campuses. In the same way that LEED focuses on buildings, SITES focuses on everything on a property except for the building. 

The system uses a points-based framework, similar to LEED, to gauge how effectively a property performs across multiple categories. Projects earn points by meeting prerequisites and credits in areas like landscape design, construction, and operations. These points add up to certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum. Throughout the process, SITES encourages a holistic approach, integrating everything from native plantings and wildlife habitats to community-friendly amenities and safe access pathways. 

This performance-based methodology means that no two SITES-certified projects are alike. Some may emphasize robust stormwater systems, while others might focus on pollinator gardens or renewable energy integration. What ties them together is the commitment to meaningful results — protecting habitats, improving local ecosystems, and ensuring people can thrive in these spaces. 

Why Consider SITES Certification? 

Adaptable and Performance-Focused 

One major advantage of SITES is its flexibility. Each project has its own unique context — an urban pocket park is entirely different from a sprawling corporate campus. By concentrating on performance metrics, SITES can adapt to these variances. For example, a small rooftop terrace in a busy city can earn SITES certification if it meets the same performance targets (per unit area) as an extensive business park. Whether your project is a suburban development, a commercial complex, or a newly envisioned park, SITES allows you to align sustainability goals with real-world actions. 

Environmental and Social Impact 

SITES is a practical tool for meeting environmental benchmarks, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing water efficiency, and promoting ecosystem health. For instance, it stresses the use of native plants and tree cover — a move that can save millions of gallons of water annually in larger landscapes and create a carbon sink. 

Take the Chicago Navy Pier renovation project, for example. Its focus on resilient, climate-suitable landscaping and efficient irrigation systems allows its irrigation demands to be met entirely with harvested rainwater. Additionally, the integration of energy-efficient infrastructure reduced its energy use by 60%. This led to meaningful environmental improvements while providing visitors with a more welcoming outdoor experience. 

Long-Term Value 

Beyond environmental and community perks, SITES-certified projects often see a noticeable jump in property value and public image — two advantages that can boost a developer’s bottom line. The National Recreation and Park Association reports that properties near well-maintained green spaces can command an 8–10% premium. SITES certification may push those numbers even higher by demonstrating a proven commitment to sustainability. 

Local governments and utilities frequently offer incentives — like reduced stormwater fees or faster permitting — for certified green sites, helping offset upfront costs. Meanwhile, thoughtfully designed outdoor areas can improve tenant and employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and enhance productivity.  

Additionally, access to greener environments lowers stress-related absences by 10% and improves productivity by 6%, delivering tangible workforce savings. By blending financial returns with a stronger public profile, SITES certification has become a powerful tool for developers seeking resilient, high-value spaces that resonate with both business and community interests. 

Key Focus Areas of SITES Certification 

When aiming for SITES certification, projects are evaluated against several key focus areas: 

1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Energy Efficiency 

Spaces are rewarded for developing walkable and bikeable areas, improving soil health, and using energy-efficient lighting. For example, a university plaza might install solar-powered pathways or lighting solutions, not just for cost savings but also to reduce its carbon footprint. 

2. Solar Renewable Energy Integration 

SITES encourages on-site renewable energy solutions where feasible. For a mixed-use development, this might mean installing a solar system that reduces emissions and provides energy for landscaping maintenance or EV charging stations. 

3. Sustainable Materials and Lifecycle Management

Materials used in site development — from walkways to benches — should have minimal environmental impact, ideally with a proven supply chain. This includes recycled content, regionally sourced materials, and end-of-life recyclability. For example, the Ellinikon Experience Park in Athens, Georgia, reused existing concrete surfaces during its redevelopment to create a sculpture garden, pathways, and outdoor furniture. 

4. Energy Management Systems and Monitoring Performance 

Collectively, these focus areas lead to tangible benefits, from lowering operational costs to improving a site’s appeal and comfort.  

Is SITES Right for Your Project? 

SITES is worth considering if you’re planning a new urban development or renovating a neglected outdoor area. Some ideal candidates include: 

Urban Plazas and Streetscapes 

Revamping municipal plazas or adding landscaped promenades to city streets can create greener corridors, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve local air quality. 

Open Spaces or Green Campuses 

University or corporate campuses often have large expanses of lawn and landscaping. SITES certification can help these open spaces evolve into habitat-friendly zones that promote employee wellness and resource conservation. 

Commercial and Residential Developments 

For property owners or developers, a SITES-certified space can set your project apart and attract stakeholders who value sustainability. Imagine a residential complex with nature trails, pollinator gardens, and interactive rainwater harvesting installations — elements that elevate community well-being while protecting natural resources. 

By considering a wide array of natural features and development criteria, SITES encourages each project to strike a balance between preserving the environment and enhancing the human experience. 

Taking the Next Step with SITES 

There’s a reason there are over 1.3 billion square feet of SITES-certified outdoor space: the benefits go well beyond environmental stewardship. By integrating ecological design strategies, projects can reduce ongoing maintenance costs, streamline permitting, and see higher property values. Community goodwill and investor interest also tend to rise as these landscapes foster healthier environments for everyone who uses them. For developers looking to future-proof their projects, SITES is quickly becoming a go-to framework for creating high-performance outdoor spaces. 

At Emerald Built Environments, A Crete United Company, we specialize in guiding clients through their sustainability journey, from SITES and LEED certification to greenhouse gas emissions reporting. Our experienced team provides transparent, efficient strategies, helping you meet program prerequisites and unlock the operational benefits of performance-based design. By partnering with us, you’ll gain a long-term ally devoted to your project’s success, ensuring that your site remains resilient, cost-effective, and truly valued by the people who use it.