Consider Origin and Fate of Materials
There are many choices available for green building materials. These might include wood obtained from certified forests and recycled products, products with low VOC and other toxic components that can damage the landscape and habitat, and materials that don’t contaminate the landscape or living systems as they degrade over time.
Know the Cost of Energy
Energy that is embodied in the landscape
Low voltage lighting
Water and fuel
Lifecycle costing for materials
Maintain for Health
Use less fertilizers and pesticides
Less water consumption
Appropriate machinery and fuel
Read more in Sustainable Landscape Construction by J. William Thompson and Kim Sorvig.