Can Green roofs reduce global warming ?
Kristin Getter, Michigan State
University (MSU) horticulturist and colleagues, who conducted the study point
out that green roofs are multi-functional. They found that green roofing an
urban area of one million people would capture more than 55,000 tons of carbon.
That's an amount "similar to removing more than 10,000 mid-sized SUVs or
trucks off the road a year," their research stated.
Green roofs reduce heating and air
conditioning costs, retain and detain storm water. Green roofs also absorb
carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming, but
nobody has measured the impact until now.
The scientists measured carbon
levels in plant and soil samples collected from 13 green roofs in Michigan and
Maryland over a two-year period. Their study is slated for publication in the
October issue of Environmental Science & Technology.
Here are some facts and tips on
green roof:
- Green roofs last longer than conventional roofs, reduce
energy costs with natural insulation.
- They absorb storm water, potentially lessening the need
for complex and expensive drainage systems.
- Green roofs improve air quality and help reduce the
urban heat island effect.
- About 15% of heat in a building can come through roof,
which can be eliminated by having a green roof.
- Green roof technology extends roof life and is
effective for sound insulation in the building.
- Many green buildings in India are also adopting such
roof-tops dens.
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