Sustainable Development

Southface knows that sound policy can enable a just transition to more equitable sustainable development, and is working to influence data-driven, community and stakeholder informed, innovative approaches to a more resilient, low-carbon future.

Green Affordable Housing

Southface has long worked in the affordable housing space. We believe focusing on the preservation and creation of healthy, comfortable and efficient affordable housing is critical to sustainable and resilient communities. This means achieving total affordability and high quality of life for those who are striving to maintain both in the face of rampant development and the adverse impacts of climate change.

Codes and Zoning

By partnering with state and local governments and other nonprofits to engage the community and key stakeholders, Southface is a powerful advocate for the adoption of sustainable development practices. The focus of our work includes high-performance building codes and zoning, as well as development practices that support accessible, healthy and resource-efficient buildings and communities. Initiatives include the City of Decatur High Performance Building Ordinance, the Tiny House Feasibility Study and active participation in the Georgia State Codes Advisory Committee.

Resources

White Paper

Energy Efficiency Tax Credit for Solar and Renewables

On December 17, 2010, President Obama signed the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010. This law extends, but alters, the tax credits for energy efficiency available in 2011.

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White Paper

Energy Efficiency in the South

The economic recession, climate change concerns and rising electricity costs have motivated many states to embrace energy efficiency as a way to create new local jobs, lower energy bills, and promote environmental sustainability.

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White Paper

Energy Efficiency is a Georgia Priority

The 2006 report of the Governor’s Energy Policy Council states: “The Council recommends as its highest priority that Georgia should aggressively pursue all cost-effective energy efficiency opportunities.”

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