The idea that increasing density is good for the environment has been conventional wisdom among environmentalists and planners for decades. (Synonyms that are often used for popular appeal include 'transit-friendly,' 'smart growth,' and 'anti-sprawl.') If West has made progress in quantifying this effect, that's great, but the conclusion alone would be much too banal to be the lede of an article in 2010.
I think you underestimate how banal people in 2010 are willing to make a lede. As evidence for this, I offer the first paragraph of the article in question.
