May8
What are the Benefits of a Green Roof?
Posted by david.luukas
Urban Heat Island Effect
Temperatures are known to be higher in urban areas relative to surrounding rural areas, due to the higher quantity of impermeable, reflective surfaces and increased population density.
Green roofs reverse this effect by returning moisture to the environment through evapotranspiration, reducing solar gain and improving air quality.
Stormwater Management
There is an increased need in the UK for Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS).
The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and recent increased flooding drives designers to consider and provide solutions to reduce the effect of construction on existing drainage systems.
Green roofs are recognised as a measure that can be used to provide a level of additional SUDS capacity.
Carbon Capture
CO2 capture is one of the primary legislative drivers for including a green roof on a building.
As vegetation consumes carbon during photosynthesis, green roofs positively remove emissions, helping arrest climate change. Air pollution levels are also reduced by the green roof’s ability to trap harmful particulates and capture gases.
Habitat Provision
Green roofs can provide food, habitat, nesting opportunities or resting places for creatures displaced by urban development, such as spiders, beetles, butterflies, birds and other invertebrates.
Replacing lost habitat or creating areas of bio-diversity, potentially aids planning applications or helps contribute towards BREEAM.