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Abstract
The Green Area Factor (GAF, or in German, Biotopflächenfaktor) is a ratio of ecologically functioning area to total area of a given property and is the functional unit of a powerful urban policy instrument successfully implemented in Berlin by the same name. The GAF functions on the principle of non-prescriptive, local environmental improvements on site of new construction. By setting minimum greening targets for new development, Berlin planners have maintained green space and enhanced the urban environment in the face of infill and redevelopment on public and private properties alike. Indeed, in this way, the instrument does not involve mitigation in the strictest sense, as mandated iprovement levels are not based upon the direct environmental impacts of development, rather, upon local environmental priorities and needs. However, existing landowners are grandfathered and property owners must only fulfill requirements when applying for building permits.
The Green Area Factor (GAF, or in German, Biotopflächenfaktor) is a ratio of ecologically functioning area to total area of a given property and is the functional unit of a powerful urban policy instrument successfully implemented in Berlin by the same name. The GAF functions on the principle of non-prescriptive, local environmental improvements on site of new construction. By setting minimum greening targets for new development, Berlin planners have maintained green space and enhanced the urban environment in the face of infill and redevelopment on public and private properties alike. Indeed, in this way, the instrument does not involve mitigation in the strictest sense, as mandated iprovement levels are not based upon the direct environmental impacts of development, rather, upon local environmental priorities and needs. However, existing landowners are grandfathered and property owners must only fulfill requirements when applying for building permits.
Date
5/2005
5/2005
Author(s)
Melissa Keeley
Melissa Keeley
Page(s)
Keyword(s)
green roof; green area factor
green roof; green area factor