Benefits of Green Roofing:
Reduce Energy Costs, Stormwater Management & More
Stormwater Management
Green roofing systems have been shown to retain 60-100% of the rainfall they receive. Stormwater retention relieves excess volume from overburdened sewer systems and filters stormwater pollutants. By replacing the footprint of vegetation that was removed by buildings and associated impermeable pavement surfaces, green roofs mitigate the impacts of stormwater runoff from urban development.
Reduce Energy Costs
Green roofs provide the ecologically and economically important benefit of rooftop insulation to reduce the amount of energy used for building air conditioning. Green roofing acts as a barrier to thermal transfer of the sun's energy through the roof. Plants re-circulate water from the root zone, cooling the air above the roof and absorb or deflect incoming solar radiation.
Reduced Urban Heat Island Effect
Cities can be up to 5-7º C hotter than their surrounding rural areas. Living green roofs help mitigate this effect by cooling the air over congested urban environments.
Extended Life of Roof Membranes
Daily and yearly temperature cycles place a great deal of stress on a waterproofing system that can lead to roof leaks and a need for eventual replacement. By installing green roofing, these temperature fluctuations are minimized. This extends the time before first leaks begin to occur, putting the need for replacement even further into the future. Estimates of increased longevity are over 100%.
Sound Insulation
The combination of soil, plants and trapped layers of air within green roof systems can act as a sound insulation barrier. Sound waves are absorbed, reflected or deflected.
Improved Air Quality
Tests show that increased urban vegetation habitats help reduce atmospheric pollutants and the levels of CO, NO2, O3, PM10, SO2.
LEED Certification
Buildings with green roofs may receive a number of LEED certification points.
Government Incentives
Many cities in North America have developed green roofing incentive programs. Check with your city environmental or planning department to learn more about incentives in your municipality.
Greening Urban Space
Green roofs beautify and add value to buildings, adding recreational areas and scenic views.
Conserving Biodiversity in Urban Areas
Green roofs provide a habitat for native birds and insects.
Food Production
Green roofs provide opportunities for urban agriculture.
