According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, "Sustainable landscapes are responsive to the environment, re-generative, and can actively contribute to the development of healthy communities. Sustainable landscapes sequester carbon, clean the air and water, increase energy efficiency, restore habitats, and create value through significant economic, social and, environmental benefits."
The metropolitan area of the University of Cincinnati provides a diverse selection of interesting urban issues for study, including the preservation and revitalization of its historic neighborhoods and sustainable development in the suburban areas, the challenges facing one of the oldest park systems in North America, the assets and challenges of a major city in the climate and economy of the Ohio River Valley, and the role of plant life in the ecology, economy, and culture of the city.