Abstract
In order to consider green roofs as an environmentally friendly technology, the selection of efficient and sustainable components is extremely important. Previous review papers have mainly focused on the performance and advantages of green roofs. The objective of this paper is to examine the primary layers: The waterproof and anti-root membranes; the protection, filter, and drainage layers; the substrate; and the vegetation. First, the history, modern applications, benefits and classification are analyzed in order to present a well-defined state of the art of this technology. Then, the roles, requirements, characteristics, and materials are assessed for each green roof layers. This technology was compared to a conventional roof technology, Mediterranean climate conditions and their influence on green roof design were assessed, also comparing them with Tropical area and focusing on irrigation systems, examples about the commercial materials and products available in the market were provided and innovative materials coming from recycled sources were analyzed. Future research should evaluate new materials for green roof technologies, in order to enhance their performance and increase their sustainability. The information provided in this review paper will be useful to develop Mediterranean green roof guidelines for selecting suitable components and materials during the design and installation phases.
Highlights
Climate change and the scarcity of natural energy resources are topics of interest in many countries [1]
This technology was compared to a conventional roof technology, Mediterranean climate conditions and their influence on green roof design were assessed, comparing them with Tropical area and focusing on irrigation systems, examples about the commercial materials and products available in the market were provided and innovative materials coming from recycled sources were analyzed
For the optimal colonization of the vegetation, the results showed that a substrate thickness of 15 cm composed mainly of clays and silt (75% clay-silt and 25% pebble-sand) would be recommended for the installation of green roofs with such substrates in a Mediterranean climate context
Summary
Climate change and the scarcity of natural energy resources are topics of interest in many countries [1]. According to a recent report of the United Nations, urbanization is forecasted to attain 83% by 2030 in developed countries [2]. This results in several environmental issues on a global scale, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions. Due to this worldwide urbanization, the demand for new buildings, land, water, and energy have drastically increased over the last four decades. The building sector is of particular interest in the reduction of energy use, in order to limit global warming and mitigate the impacts of climate change [4,5]
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