Expanding the Landscape Environment: A Look at Green Roofs
46m
he multifaceted values of green roofs compliment and support the goals and purposes of ground level landscapes in the built and natural environments. The practice of green roofs in North America is relatively new as compared to the traditional landscape industry yet continues to expand nationwide given the aesthetic, environmental, social and numerous other benefits of green roof systems. As you may imagine, gazing out a high-rise window looking down onto adjacent buildings, it’s much more interesting and pleasing to see plants and outdoor spaces compared to a standard roof. Along with the improved aesthetics and increased accessible outdoor spaces, that roof serves other roles such as managing storm water runoff, reducing urban heat and noise pollution, increasing building insulation and the lifespan of the roof, supporting wildlife habitat and urban agriculture. This presentation will provide a discussion of the multifaceted benefits of green roofs, different types and basic construction of green roofs as well as the creative opportunities in the landscape industry.