What is a primary benefit of implementing sustainable landscaping in a building project as part of a cost-benefit analysis of sustainable practices?

The main advantage of adding sustainable landscaping is that it cuts the building’s operating costs by reducing heating and cooling needs. Plants and trees create shade and release moisture, which cools the surrounding air and lowers the temperature that the HVAC system must manage. This energy savings translates into lower electricity bills and less wear on equipment, giving a clear return on the upfront landscaping investment. For example, a roof garden in a hot‑climate office can lower cooling costs by up to 30 %, saving thousands of dollars each year. Thus, sustainable landscaping provides a tangible, long‑term financial benefit that is easy to quantify in a cost‑benefit analysis.