The document discusses sustainable cities and communities. It introduces the need for sustainable urban planning to accommodate increasing populations through safe, affordable, resilient cities with green living conditions. It then discusses green buildings and methods for making buildings more sustainable through exterior, energy, process, site and interior solutions. Green buildings can improve health, reduce costs and environmental impacts. Tips for green building construction include more efficient use of space, investment in insulation, use of solar energy, space for gardens, adapting to nature, and adequate waste facilities. Characteristics of green buildings include location, sustainable sites, efficient water use, energy use, indoor environmental quality and materials/resources.