Green roofs have grown in importance throughout the last decade, particularly in urban areas where their benefits provide immediate dividends in combating climate change and its potentially catastrophic effects.
With an increased focus on implementing a “green recovery” in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is projected that a large percentage of future jobs will be firmly rooted in green infrastructure and the use of natural solutions.
The desire to incorporate more green roofs atop city dwellings is merely the first step. For them to truly benefit the surrounding environment, they must be meticulously crafted based on the particular climate they exist within. Designed properly, this can lead to stark improvements in biodiversity, superior stormwater management, and reduction of the urban heat island.
A Shared Passion for Growth
Occupations range from architects and designers to construction personnel and facilities managers, while also encompassing those involved in product manufacturing and soil blending. This collection of dedicated professionals' shared passion for nature and healthy communities led, in part, to the first-ever World Green Roof Day, celebrated this year on June 6.
According to a recent survey conducted by nonprofit Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, a leading voice in the green roof and wall industry in North America, figures indicate a 5-15% market growth trend since 2013, with cities such as Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Denver, Portland, and New York City taking a leading role in green roof expansion. For every dollar spent on green roof development, municipalities can earn, or save, up to six dollars.
Ongoing Education is Key
Though there exists a continuing need for policymakers to include these projects in their planning and resilience strategies, of equal importance is the necessity for professionals to continue educating themselves on best practices to follow throughout the industry. To this end, the Green Roof Professional Training series was created to aid in the mastery of both installation and maintenance of green roofs.
Mobilizing to Combat Climate Change
Perhaps a sign of things to come, the New York City Council in 2019 passed the Climate Mobilization Act, designed to combat the threat of climate change, promote the development of clean energy infrastructure, greenhouse gas reduction, and improvements to the ecosystem through the implementation of green roofs.
Under this law, the Office of Alternative Energy is required to post and maintain links regarding the installation of green roofs citywide. It also mandates the inclusion of a “sustainable roofing zone" in all new construction and on those buildings undergoing renovations or replacement of an existing roof deck or assembly. Smaller buildings (five stories or less) are similarly encouraged to craft green spaces, which are incentivized by tax exemptions.
There is reason to believe additional cities will follow suit in passing legislation to promote the development of future green roof projects, as the nation works its way toward a sustainable future.
For further information on green roofs, the process involved, and the proper customization and maintenance of your rooftop environment, contact American Organic Energy today.
