Green roofs and ecosystems
Cities themselves are ecosystems. If an ecosystem services approach is adopted, essential improvements can be achieved to the quality of our built environment, for biodiversity, for people and for the climate. This 2-day course included design, practical construction and theory, engaging in new ways of thinking about design. Different issues regarding ecosystem services were discussed from planning, natural cycles, ecological networks, green infrastructure and the importance of multi-functionality to built environment design. This inspiring and interactive course was lead by the UK’s top experts in ecosystem services and living roofs.
Green Roofs, also referred to as eco-roofs and living roofs, have been with us for centuries, however, modern green roofs have largely developed in the last 50 years, with increasing sophistication to meet a growing range of needs. The modern green roof systems are highly durable and provide a number of key sustainable and environmental benefits:
Improved thermal performance
Due to the high degree of insulation that they provide, green roofs are known for their ability to provide an extremely constant temperature throughout the year.
Storm water run off
In summer green roofs can retain 70-80% of rainfall and in winter they retain between 25-40%.
Aesthetics
Green roofs have the ability to soften harsh edges of buildings.
Part L - Reduced CO2 emissions
Green roofs reduce the heat island effect (the difference in temperature between urban areas and the surrounding countryside), which is the main cause of ozone production.
Noise & Sound Insulation The combination of soil, plants and trapped layers of air within green roof systems can act as a sound insulation barrier.
Biodiversity & wildlife
Green roofs are intrinsically of greater benefit to biodiversity than more traditional roofing methods.
Location: Oxford, UK
In partnership with:
Livingroofs.org
RESET
Green Roofs, also referred to as eco-roofs and living roofs, have been with us for centuries, however, modern green roofs have largely developed in the last 50 years, with increasing sophistication to meet a growing range of needs. The modern green roof systems are highly durable and provide a number of key sustainable and environmental benefits:
Improved thermal performance
Due to the high degree of insulation that they provide, green roofs are known for their ability to provide an extremely constant temperature throughout the year.
Storm water run off
In summer green roofs can retain 70-80% of rainfall and in winter they retain between 25-40%.
Aesthetics
Green roofs have the ability to soften harsh edges of buildings.
Part L - Reduced CO2 emissions
Green roofs reduce the heat island effect (the difference in temperature between urban areas and the surrounding countryside), which is the main cause of ozone production.
Noise & Sound Insulation The combination of soil, plants and trapped layers of air within green roof systems can act as a sound insulation barrier.
Biodiversity & wildlife
Green roofs are intrinsically of greater benefit to biodiversity than more traditional roofing methods.
Location: Oxford, UK
In partnership with:
Livingroofs.org
RESET
