Green roofs, also known as eco-roofs, are a growing trend in commercial buildings.

Let’s
explore what they are and how they benefit businesses and the environment:
1. What Is a Green Roof?
o A green roof is essentially a rooftop garden.
o It’s established on commercial buildings with flat or pitched roofs.
o A substrate that supports vegetation is laid directly over the waterproof membrane
on the roof.
o This substrate acts as the growing medium for plants.
2. Environmental Benefits of Green Roofs:
o Reduced Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gases:
 Green roofs lower energy consumption requirements, especially for air
conditioning.
 Each square meter of a green roof can absorb 5 kg of CO2 annually.
 Vegetation on green roofs also acts as a filter, removing harmful
compounds from the air.
o Promoting Biodiversity:
 Green roofs create habitats for flora and fauna.
 They can be designed to provide food and shelter for insects, small
mammals, and birds.
 Urban pollinators like bees benefit from alternative habitats provided by
green roofs.
3. Economic and Social Benefits:
o Heat Island Mitigation:
 Urban areas with multiple tall buildings become heat islands.
 Green roofs help counter this by providing natural cooling through
evapotranspiration.
o Cost Savings:
 Green roofs can reduce utility costs by insulating buildings and reducing
energy needs.
 They also contribute to a healthier community and environment.
4. Types of Green Roofs:
o Extensive Green Roofs: These are the “lite” option, built on existing roofs.
 They are cost-effective and lightweight, requiring less growing medium.
o Intensive Green Roofs: More elaborate systems with deeper soil.
 They can support larger plants and even small trees.

In summary, green roofs not only enhance the aesthetics of commercial buildings but also play a

vital role in sustainable urban living. 1234.