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Green Roofs
The implementation of green roofs at UWM is a prime example of addressing sustainable objectives in an urban environment.
Green roofs address the problem that cities have with the Urban Heat Island Effect* and increased rapid stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces.
Green roofs also provide the benefits of reduced costs on heating and cooling, decreased long-term maintenance and longer life span than a conventional roof, improved air quality, and increased urban habitat for wildlife.
“A green roof system is an extension of the existing roof which involves a high quality water proofing and root repellant system, a drainage system, filter cloth, a lightweight growing medium and plants.
Green roof systems may be modular, with drainage layers, filter cloth, growing media and plants already prepared in movable, interlocking grids, or, each component of the system may be installed separately. Green roof development involves the creation of "contained" green space on top of a human-made structure. This green space could be below, at or above grade, but in all cases the plants are not planted in the "ground'. Green roofs can provide a wide range of public and private benefits.
Green roof technologies not only provide the owners of buildings with a proven return on investment, but also represent opportunities for significant social, economic and environmental benefits, particularly in cities.”
See the long list of private and public benefits of green roofs at: Green Roofs for Healthy Cities
The student organization, Ecotone, spearheaded the initiative and planted the green roof found outside the west side of UWM’s Union in the spring of 2007. The project was made possible by the assistance of Facility Services and several volunteers. This green roof is planted with several Wisconsin native and endangered species.
* ”The 'Urban Heat Island Effect' is the difference in temperature between a city and the surrounding countryside. It is mainly due to the expanse of hard and reflective surfaces, such as roofs, which absorb solar radiation and re-radiate it as heat. Reduction of the 'Urban Heat Island Effect' will also reduce the distribution of dust and particulate matter throughout the city and the production of smog. This can play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting urban areas to a future climate with warmer summers.”
Additional Information:
- Green Roof at WATER Institute
- Spaights Plaza Green Roof
- Live Photos of Sandburg Green Roof Construction