Sustainable Landscapes Pittsburgh
What is a Sustainable Landscape?
Sustainable Landscapes Pittsburgh integrates natural and built systems to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. These landscapes go beyond aesthetics, offering environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Growing awareness of issues like air and water quality, land use, fossil fuel consumption, climate change, and energy costs is driving a shift in landscape design. The focus is moving from single-purpose designs to multi-functional systems that mimic natural processes and balance environmental, economic, and social considerations.
Services Provided:
- Site analysis and sustainable planning
- Soil health improvement
- Native plant selection and installation
- Water-efficient irrigation systems
- Organic lawn and garden care
- Sustainable hardscaping solutions
Native Plants
Native plants are adapted to local conditions, making them resilient and ideal for sustainable landscaping, conservation, and restoration. They support biodiversity, reduce maintenance, lower costs, and enhance well-being while providing aesthetic value. Native designs can be intentional and refined, not just “wild.” Pennsylvania boasts over 2,000 native plants, including “nativars,” which offer ecological benefits and beauty. Using native plants restores ecosystems and creates sustainable, harmonious landscapes that connect people to nature.
Services Provided:
- Native plant consultation and selection
- Native garden design and installation
- Invasive species removal
- Seasonal maintenance and care
- Wildlife habitat creation
Biodiversity
Biodiversity includes all plant and animal species, their habitats, and interdependent communities. Native plants in gardens support biodiversity by providing food, shelter, and breeding spaces for wildlife. This restores lost habitats, mimics natural systems, and creates resilient, ever-changing landscapes that sustain diverse species and enhance ecological balance.
Services Provided:
- Pollinator-friendly plant installation
- Wildlife habitat enhancement
- Ecological restoration
- Companion planting strategies
- Habitat monitoring and management
POLLINATOR GARDENS / POLLINATORS
Pollinator gardens are sustainable landscapes designed to support pollinators like birds, bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. They use native plants with diverse blooms, ensuring food, shelter, and nesting areas year-round. Features like water and host plants, such as milkweed for Monarch butterflies, enhance their ecological value. These gardens also provide educational and enjoyable experiences, allowing families to connect with nature while supporting wildlife and promoting conservation efforts.
Services Provided:
- Pollinator garden design and installation
- Native flowering plant selection
- Nesting habitat creation
- Seasonal pollinator garden maintenance
- Educational workshops and consultations
SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPES, MAINTENANCE & HUMAN WELLBEING
Sustainable landscapes require fewer inputs over time, resulting in economic and environmental benefits. Adapted to regional conditions, they use native plants needing minimal watering, fertilizing, or chemicals. Replacing manicured lawns with native plant communities reduces emissions, improves air quality, and lowers noise. Maintenance focuses on holistic care, respecting natural cycles and prioritizing organic methods. These landscapes provide visual harmony, stress relief, and opportunities for stewardship, fostering a positive connection with the environment.
Services Provided:
- Organic landscape maintenance
- Soil regeneration and composting
- Eco-friendly lawn alternatives
- Integrated pest management
- Seasonal cleanup and monitoring
STORMWATER / RAINWATER CONTROL
Stormwater and rainwater control are crucial for preventing flooding, erosion, and water pollution. Sustainable landscape solutions help manage runoff by utilizing natural systems such as rain gardens, permeable paving, and bioswales to slow, capture, and filter water. These solutions protect local waterways, replenish groundwater, and reduce the burden on municipal drainage systems. Investing in stormwater management not only enhances property value but also contributes to environmental health and regulatory compliance.
Services Provided:
- Rain garden design and installation
- Permeable paving solutions
- Bioswale construction
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Erosion control measures
- Drainage system design and maintenance
Driving Forces
- Climate Change
- Water Quality Degradation
- Increased Impervious Cover
- Reduced Biodiversity
Guiding Principles
- Preservation, Conservation, and Regeneration – decision making hierarchy
- Systems thinking approaches
- Environmental Stewardship
- Supporting a Living Process
- Design with Nature and Create Regenerative systems for future generations
Benefits
- Augmenting Air Quality
- Disaster Mitigation
- Protect and Encourage Pollinators
- Protect Wildlife Habitat
- Augment Biodiversity
- Reduce Inputs and Waste
- Protect Water Resources
- Improving Human Community with Nature
- Protect and Improve Soil Quality
- Minimize Disturbance and Preserve Vegetative Cover
- Stormwater Best Management Practices
- Bio-retention and Rain Garden
- Economics of Sustainable Landscapes and Applicable Environment Regulations
- Green Infrastructure and Low-Impact Development
- Sustainable Site Design
- Native Plants
- Invasive Monitoring and Management
- Measurable environmental and societal improvements
Benefits
- Augmenting Air Quality
- Disaster Mitigation
- Protect and Encourage Pollinators
- Protect Wildlife Habitat
- Augment Biodiversity
- Reduce Inputs and Waste
- Protect Water Resources
- Improving Human Community with Nature
- Protect and Improve Soil Quality
- Minimize Disturbance and Preserve Vegetative Cover
- Stormwater Best Management Practices
- Bio-retention and Rain Garden
- Economics of Sustainable Landscapes and Applicable Environment Regulations
- Green Infrastructure and Low-Impact Development
- Sustainable Site Design
- Native Plants
- Invasive Monitoring and Management
- Measurable environmental and societal improvements