Common threads run through many green development projects.
These three elements manifest themselves in many different ways and often reinforce each other. For example, a development designed to reduce dependence on automobiles is likely to foster greater community cohesiveness and lower crime, since residents walk more and get to know their neighbors. A building designed in a regional vernacular style may be more efficient in its use of resources for construction since more local materials are used. Environmental Responsiveness Conventional development is frequently insensitive to the natural environment. Projects may scar the landscape, take valuable agricultural land out of production, or destroy wildlife habitat.