There are many issues to consider when selecting real estate for a new building project, one of which is whether to build on “old” land, a brownfield, or on “new” land, a greenfield. A brownfield is land that has been formerly developed but is no longer in use. This land may contain levels of contamination. A greenfield is defined as a plot of land that has not been previously developed. Examples include forests, wetlands, or open fields. Greenfields generally feature no significant amount of toxic materials.

There are pros and cons to building on both types of land. Because greenfields are in pristine condition, they are usually much cheaper to build on than brownfields. Greenfields require neither cleaning nor the removal of hazardous structures. Although greenfields are cheaper, they come at a price for the environment. Developing new land contributes to urban sprawl and can lead to deforestation, the destruction of natural habitats, increases in greenhouse gasses, and reductions in the amount of land available for farming.

Developing on brownfield locations has many benefits and is a more sustainable practice. Run down neighborhoods can be revitalized when abandoned buildings are replaced with new homes and businesses. Recycling land can transform hazardous, useless properties into future lively communities. Because brownfields have been previously used, their development does not contribute to urban sprawl. The biggest problem with brownfield revitalization is that it can be expensive. Depending on the amount and type of contamination, it can be more costly to clean a site than to actually build upon it.

Fortunately the government can help land developers make the sustainable choice. The Environmental Protection Agency and many state-run brownfield programs offer incentives and subsidies for brownfield development. Programs such as these need continued support and promotion by our government in order to implement more sustainable practices into our culture and to ensure the health of our planet.

A greenfield

A brownfield