Sophia Bosma

There is a worldwide crisis involving pollution and climate change. Planting a green roof has many benefits and also help contribute in the fight against climate change. If we left the world as it is, in 10 years we could see rising global temperatures and sea levels..

A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier, drainage, and irrigation systems.

There are 3 main types of green roofs: extensive, intensive and semi intensive. The extensive green roofs require little to no care, while an intensive green roof needs routine maintenance. The layers of the roofing would include waterproofing, insulation, drainage, and the growing medium.

Green roofs improve water quality, conserve energy, decrease air pollution, create habitats for wildlife, and gives a pleasing environment to the humans around them. They also act as insulators for a building, reducing any money spent on heat and air conditioning.

The actual building of the green roof can be as easy as getting on your roof and planting some plants. To ensure everything is stable, it is best to hire professional help. There are currently some buildings being built in Highland Park, Texas. To build they must rip out a large area of green space, so to compensate they are planning on installing green roofs on top of the buildings.