Green Roof Technology By Abby Roemer Did you

Green Roof Technology By: Abby Roemer

Did you know… America's 81 million buildings consume more energy than any other sector of the U. S. economy, including transportation and industry?

Why is this fact relevant? ü “The Heat Island Effect” Heat radiates from city surfaces, industrial processes, and automobiles raising the immediate atmospheric temperatures. Higher temperatures create atmospheric instability, increasing chances of rainfall and severe storms. Also, high temps stir up dust, it gets trapped causing smog ü High energy bills ü Unsafe air quality ü Sewer system flooding and water contamination ü Sound penetration Green roof technology is capable of alleviating these problems

Presentation Preview: I. Defining a green roof II. The 2 main types III. Function and Benefits

• A green roof is: Vegetation cover on a roof surface. (Yeang, 2006) • 2 main types: Extensive and Intensive

Type 1: Extensive • Shallow depth (typically 2 -4 in. ) • Low growing, often broad leaved plants • Plants with ability to withstand harsh weather conditions • Extremely low maintenance • Minimal weight load

Type 2: Intensive • Depth of 1 ft. or more • Involve high maintenance plants such as trees and shrubs • Irrigation system often necessary • High maintenance • Considerable weight load • Less common • Commonly accessible by public

Basic System Layers

(example of a company’s system that includes additional layers)

Filters, Cleans, Cools, and releases cleaner air and water

Environmental, Economic, & Psychological Benefits: • Reduced Rain Water Runoff = less chance of contaminated water or storm sewer flooding (a major issue) • Cleaner Air Quality • Improved Insulation = lower heating and cooling costs • Water Purification • Provides a Habitat for various organisms • Sound Absorption • Cooler air = less smog (Urban Heat Island Effect) • Aesthetic Appeal • Extended roof life (by 20 years or more!) • Recreational Space • Potential to Recycle Wastewater • New Jobs (horticulture specialists, manufacturer s, installation experts, etc. )

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