Topic 1 Environmental Benefits
Increasing Biodiversity
The type and the amount of biodiversity will depend on the green roof type of construction and the results of the conducted study. Green roofs can also help buildings present substantial improvisation in regards with the sustainable design assessment systems.
Reduction of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect
Green roofs usually offer shade and cooler air resulting in the temperatures reduction both in the roof surface and the surrounding air. The installation of green roofs in urban environment with limited vegetation is considered as an effective UHI moderator.
Green roof temperatures can be up to 4°C lower than a conventional roof.
Rainwater management
Central urban areas are met to typically have a very low level of rainwater permeability bringing up serious consequences during periods of torrential rains, storms, or snow melting.
It is a fact that the “greening” of these areas of impermeable surfaces and high prices of land render is exaggeratedly priced or even not applicable, at all.
Green roofs technology have introduced an innovative solution to this emerging problem.
CO2 reduction and decrease the atmospheric pollution and Green House Gas (GHG) emissions
Green roofs can preserve the temperature in normal levels and as a result they appear to have a sufficient impact in the reduction of air-conditioning therefore the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.
Creation of new fauna habitats: enrichment of urban agriculture
The formulation of green roofs gives life to flora species definitely increasing the percentages of greenery in an urban environment.
The advancement of flora in turn “energizes” the (micro)fauna enrichment promoting the urban agriculture in a significant level.
Improvement of Air and Water Quality
The moderation of building temperatures facilitated by green roof technology helps to reduce the air pollution criteria and greenhouse gases.
As a result, green roofs accelerate the prevention and reduction of a wide range of air and water pollutants, creating short-term and long-lasting benefits for the atmosphere and human health.
