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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?. “The Heat Island Effect”
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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? • “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 • High energy bills • Unsafe air quality • Sewer system flooding and water contamination • Sound penetration Green roof technology is capable of alleviating these problems.
Presentation Preview: • Defining a green roof • The 2 main types • Function and Benefits
A green roof is: Vegetation cover on a roof surface. (Yeang, 2006) Extensive and Intensive • 2 main types:
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 1ft. 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
(example of a company’s system that includes additional layers)
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,manufacturers, installation experts, etc.) Environmental, Economic, & Psychological Benefits: