Researchers at the University of Toronto have completed a ‘life-cycle assessment’ of a green roof in order to confirm that ecological rooftops can provide significant environmental benefits. In the case-study undertaken, annual energy savings from a simple green roof amounted to 1.2%, summer cooling needs were reduced by 6%, and water runoff and pollution were reduced.
- environmental impacts of the building were reduced by between 1.0 and 5.3%
- benefits afforded to wider environment included 5% decrease in eutrophication (the excessive accumulation of nutrients) and abiotic depletion (loss of natural environmental resources and minerals)
- 2.5% drop in potential human and aquatic toxicity
- reduced storm-water runoff = infrastructure savings of $79 million
- erosion control = savings of $25 million
- pollution avoidance = $13 million
- an additional three ‘beach days’ in the city each year
- reduced energy demands during peak cooling periods = save $68 million
- reduced urban heat island effects
- reduced air pollution
- city beautification
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