University of Michigan scientists are undertaking a study to explore how choices like how you landscape your property could make a difference in the environment.

Through a detailed analysis of the science, policy and design of land use, researchers are looking at how so-called exurban areas - the farthest suburbs - can absorb more carbon from the atmosphere.

The research could lead to changes in how developers, residents and planners think about and create landscapes. And it could influence policy designed to encourage greenhouse-gas friendly development, researchers say.

Development in the exurbs - those places a few freeway exits past the suburbs, generally on larger acreage and not served by urban water, sewer and gas lines - became widespread in the last part of the 20th century.
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