Green Roofs
A green roof is a conventional roof that is covered with a layer of vegetation. Green roofs serve several purposes for a building, including absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, creating a habitat for wildlife and helping to lower urban air temperatures by reflecting or absorbing energy from the sun.
- The Government of the District of Columbia has recently taken a leadership role in promoting and advancing green roofs in the Nation’s capital. Mayor Adrien Fenty's goal is to achieve 20% green roof coverage on District buildings by 2020.
- Green roofs offer an excellent opportunity to reduce the impact of stormwater runoff that flows directly into the region's streams or rivers. Water that is filtered through a green roof is cleaner and cooler which prevents heat shock to local fish and wildlife.
- Green roofs can be an aesthetic addition to the city with plants that change colors with the seasons.
Watch two videos profiling green roofs in Washington, D.C.
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| One Judiciary Square Learn how this green roof helps to insulate buildings and protect roofs from U.V. rays. Watch. |
Elevation 314 Explore DC's first project approved to include a “green roof” as part of the stormwater management system. Watch. | ||||||
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These videos are made possible by grants from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services and the Government of the District of Columbia, Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development.
