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Sustainability

Long before sustainability and green stormwater infrastructure were buzz words, AHBL staked a flag on the emerging landscape of Low Impact Development (LID). We have been pioneering advancements in this field since 1993 and bring unparalleled experience in sustainable policy development and design. Our multidisciplinary firm offers a rare perspective of sustainability from both sides of the table. We have not only authored countless code amendments to encourage or require the use of LID, we have also implemented sustainable design solutions in both public and private projects across the state. In fact, our work is referenced as official guidance in Western Washington’s Phase I and Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permits and California’s statewide NPDES Municipal Stormwater Permit.

As environmental restrictions become more rigorous, our planners, engineers and landscape architects pride themselves on staying abreast of these ever-changing regulations. We strive to achieve our client’s goals within the boundaries of the code requirements by using the right mix of traditional and sustainable design solutions.

Our Expertise Includes:

  • The integration of LID Best Management Practices (BMPs) into local codes and ordinances;
  • Design and engineering of projects using LID BMPs and LEED standards;
  • Community goal setting and strategic planning of sustainable community systems; and
  • Sustainable master site planning.


Walking the Talk

At AHBL, we don't just talk the walk, we have the accomplishments to prove it. Our firm embraces a responsibility to contribute to our region through projects that foster environmental health and vitality. Our professional contributions include:
  • 15 LEED Accredited Professionals on staff
  • Presentations at over 50 Low Impact Development educational presentations
  • Membership with the USGBC since 2002
  • Authorship of many of the LID technical guidance manuals that have shaped the formation of LID in both western Washington and eastern Washington
  • Providing engineering and landscape architecture services on over 75 building projects designed to LEED standards, including 3 Platinum and 18 Gold buildings
  • Appointment to the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Low Impact Development Implementation Committee, which provided recommendations on integrating LID into the Department of Ecology’s Western Washington NPDES Municipal Stormwater Permits
  • Faculty appointments to teach courses on LID at the University of Washington and The Ohio State University


Doing Our Part

Internally, AHBL takes part in several activities to reduce our carbon footprint. AHBL's Seattle office even resides in the Park Place Building, Seattle's first existing building awarded the LEED-EB Platinum Certification. AHBL's corporate activities include:

  • Volunteering at Environmental Restoration Events
  • Recycling Programs
  • Green Purchasing