The City of Seattle partnered with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), ICLEI and over 20 cities and counties, non-profit organizations, state and federal agencies and utilities to launch the Playbook for Green Buildings + Neighborhoods. The Playbook is a new online tool – www.greenplaybook.org – available to local governments to help them take immediate action on climate change by rapidly advancing green buildings, neighborhoods and infrastructure.

This web-based resource addresses three areas for each sector: Learn, Plan and Act. The Playbook offers strategies, tips, tools and leading actions. It also demonstrates how green development promotes economic development, leads to healthier communities, strengthens energy independence, and supports climate protection.

Launched in November 2007 at the U.S. Mayors Climate Summit hosted by the U.S. Conference of Mayors and City of Seattle, and again at the GreenBuild International Conference and Expo, the Playbook is designed both for communities that are considering making the first steps toward green buildings and neighborhoods, as well as for those who want to take existing efforts to the next level. There is specific advice on:

• Assessing local risks and opportunities.
• Creating an action-oriented planning process to advance green buildings and neighborhoods.
• Building capacity and momentum, and maintaining steady progress by moving innovative ideas into the mainstream.
• Learning from other cities and counties that are demonstrating leadership by taking leading actions.

Visit the Playbook for Green Buildings + Neighborhoods and take advantage of this resource to advance policies and strategies in your community.