Defending Design Freedom
We believe design should never be restricted¡ªit must reflect the culture, needs, and identity of the people it serves. Landscape architects don¡¯t impose solutions¡ªthey co-create them with communities.
On Jan. 20, an executive order, , called for a federal review and oversight process on the design of federal buildings and sites, with an emphasis on classical architecture.
Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ is committed to advocating for the leadership of landscape architects and to ensure that design professionals retain the freedom to shape our public spaces.
Our Actions:
- We oppose limits on federal project design, read the letter sent to the Administrator of the General Services Administration.
- We have joined in supporting the , legislation introduced by Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV) to codify the General Services Administration¡¯s Guiding Principles of Federal Architecture. These principles seek to preserve diversity in the design of federal buildings and sites.
Reaffirming Climate Action
We believe climate action is needed now. Rising temperatures, worsening floods, and extreme weather are not future threats¡ªthey are happening. Landscape architects don¡¯t wait for debates¡ªwe design solutions.
On Jan. 20, the executive order, , announced the U.S. intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. This action was expected.
Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ objects to the action of the U.S. abdicating on its responsibility to address climate change and its effects. We reaffirm Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ¡¯s commitments to equitable climate action for all.
Our Actions:
- We remain committed to .
- We stand by our commitment to the goals of the Paris Agreement as a member of the .
- We continue the work. Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ recently to scale up solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises.
Championing Diversity & Representation For All
We believe great landscapes reflect the people who use them, respect the history of a place, and serve all communities. That only happens when all voices are part of the design process. Landscape architects understand that including diverse perspectives isn't just a principle¡ªit's essential for better outcomes.
On Jan. 20, a series of executive orders were issued targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in the public and private sectors. These include and .
As a profession and as an organization, we strive to be representative, reflective, and respectful of the communities we serve.
Our Actions:
- We support underrepresented people in their pursuit of landscape architecture licensure through the Licensure Advancement Program.
- We foster the ability for all voices, people, and perspectives within our profession, membership, staff, and leadership; access some of these programs and resource on our Diversity landing page.
- We provide to equip landscape architects with the knowledge and tools to create more inclusive, community-centered designs.
Strengthening Business
We believe landscape architecture and all its benefits thrive when policies support business development, fair competition, and professional recognition.
Both legislative and executive leadership have signaled the intention to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which contains certain tax provisions that impact landscape architects and Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ. Similarly, evolving tariffs with Canada, Mexico, China, and the rest of the world could significantly impact the cost of landscape architecture projects, from parks and streetscapes to large-scale urban developments.
These challenges emphasize the need for licensed landscape architects who already possess the knowledge, expertise, and mindset to advance rigorous standards for public safety, environmental stewardship, and sustainable design. These professionals are prepared to address complex design challenges, regulatory requirements, and the evolving needs of communities.
Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ is committed to advancing policies that support the financial health and professional stability of landscape architects. From tax policy to trade regulations and licensure protections, we are working to ensure that business conditions allow the profession to thrive.
Our Actions:
- We are tracking and evaluating tax policies that directly affect landscape architects, including business deductions, credits, and corporate tax structures.
- We reported on .
- We belong to the , a group of non-profit organizations advocating for shared tax priorities for congressional and administration consideration.
- We published a series of resources explaining how every $1 invested in nature-based adaptation for climate change results in $4 of benefits.
- We defend licensure nationwide, monitoring and responding to any state or federal actions that threaten landscape architecture licensure.
- We partner with the to amplify our effects on professional licensing. Read ARPL¡¯s recent report, .
- We spread the word widely that nature-based solutions benefit the environment, the economy, and businesses. Read an example .
Stay Informed & Get Involved
Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ is committed to keeping members informed and empowered as we navigate policy changes.
Actions You Can Take:
- Join your local chapter¡¯s advocacy efforts: Find your chapter
- Join the Conversation: Follow our and accounts for the latest information. Use #Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵvoices and #LandscapeArchitecture in your posts to share and amplify your impact.
- Share this resource: If you hear concerns from colleagues or clients, direct them to this page for the latest updates on Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ's actions.
- Tell us your thoughts: Have feedback or questions? Contact us at info@asla.org.
Together, we will continue to lead with clarity, purpose, and action.