Vermeulen takes our built environment apart, examines each element, identifies optimal pieces, and places these pieces in optimal relationships. Some of these relations and configurations are surprising; many are elegant in their simplicity, most appeal to us because we realize that success and sustainable prosperity are within our reach. 

With the values of Choice, Access, Mobility, and optimal Space, the book establishes a framework for achieving economic and ecological prosperity. Based on decades of cost/benefit analysis for his clients, Vermeulens Value Process is put to the task of saving Time, Money, and Energy.

From lower infrastructure cost to faster transportation systems that utilize 21st-century technology, we can improve our daily lives. Green at No Cost outlines how we can improve land use by 15%, save 60% on energy consumption in buildings, reduce transportation costs by 60% while increasing choice, access, mobility, and space. The Value Process creates a design framework and cost model, The Eco-City, that multiplies the ecological benefits of green infrastructure by the economic benefit of diverse activity.

“At its heart, Green at No Cost lays out the practical planning and design strategies that provide substantial cost savings for city planners, developers, architects, designers, and policymakers based on measured cost saving.” Vermeulen

“This is a thought-provoking book with great flow and images. It clearly shows how we can be economically sustainable now. Read the book, it will change the way you think about sustainability and land use planning.” Ryan

“Green at No Cost will make you question the assumptions that you probably did not realize you were making. It clearly shows us in the section titled 'THE BARRIERS’ what is holding us up from creating economically viable sustainability.” Serrao