Green Roofs Research Articles

Integrated spatial prioritization of urban nature-based solutions for climate adaptation, mitigation, and justice

ABSTRACT In densely populated cities, people confront multiple impacts of climate change, including stormwater runoff, flooding, heat waves, and health issues. To address these impacts, nature-based solutions (NbS) have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential to contribute to sustainability, resilience, and ecosystem services. Nevertheless, more research is required to understand the wider potential of NbS and to identify priority areas for their deployment. This study developed an analytical approach and implemented it in the Tehran Metropolitan Area (TMA) by considering factors related to NbS co-benefits. The approach included spatial prioritization, spatial correlation analysis, and suitability analysis. It combines a Geographic Information System, Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade-offs (InVEST) model, Zonation, Best-Worst Method, Bivariate Local Indicator of Spatial Autocorrelation analysis (BiLISA), a Fuzzy Inference System, and Boolean overlay analysis. The results include maps showing priority areas for different types of NbS and spatial co-benefits and mismatches. High-priority areas are located in disadvantaged areas. In total, 105.73 km2 (17% of the TMA) was designated as highly prioritized. We show that various NbS interventions are applicable, with green roofs and rainwater harvesting being the most feasible. This study can assist decision-makers in optimizing NbS to deliver maximum co-benefits.

Green Roofs as a Nature-Based Solution to Mitigate Urban Heating During a Heatwave Event in the City of Athens, Greece

Green Roofs as a Nature-Based Solution to Mitigate Urban Heating During a Heatwave Event in the City of Athens, Greece

Green roof runoff reduction of 84 rain events: Comparing Sedum, life strategy-based vegetation, unvegetated and conventional roofs

Green roof runoff reduction of 84 rain events: Comparing Sedum, life strategy-based vegetation, unvegetated and conventional roofs

Assessment of the Impact of LID Techniques on Water Cycle Recovery in Industrial Complexes

Urbanization and industrialization have significantly disrupted the natural water cycle, leading to increased runoff, flooding, and groundwater depletion. Research on LID (Low Impact Development) techniques is ongoing in order to address these challenges. This study has analyzed the improvement in the water cycle system by applying LID techniques to the Daejeongcheon watershed in Ulsan. Using SWMM, this study has assessed the long-term effects of LID on runoff reduction and water cycle recovery rate improvement. Based on local climate data, topographical information, and regional characteristics, LID elements such as permeable pavements, green roofs, bioretention, and vegetative swales were applied. The results showed that the LID techniques reduced runoff by 8.44% and also improved the water cycle recovery rate by 13.52%. Additionally, the study confirmed that LID techniques effectively contributed to managing runoff from the 25.5 mm rainfall management target. LID techniques are expected to serve as sustainable water management strategies in urbanized and industrialized areas, offering effective restoration and management solutions.

A Study on the Analysis of Reduction Effects and Comparison of Economic Feasibility by Applying the LID Technique

This study conducted a comparative review of the effects and project costs of four different flood runoff reduction measures applied in the Dongnam District 1 watershed. Using the XP-SWMM model, the effects of three LID (low-impact development) technologies—infiltration trenches, permeable pavement, and green roofs—were analyzed. The results showed reductions in both peak flood discharge (32.65 m<sup>3</sup>/s → 27.85 m<sup>3</sup>/s) and total runoff volume (99,725 m<sup>3</sup> → 86,814 m<sup>3</sup>). However, the application of LID technologies alone is insufficient for mitigating flood risks. Therefore, flood reduction measures were categorized into four CASEs, combining LID technologies with conventional stormwater management facilities. The cost comparison for each CASE was as follows: CASE 1 (LID + pump) at 22.3 billion KRW, CASE 2 (LID + stormwater storage facility) at 20.3 billion KRW, CASE 3 (pump) at 20.6 billion KRW, and CASE 4 (stormwater storage facility) at 21.0 billion KRW. Despite the use of LID technologies, the project costs for CASEs 3 and 4, which utilized existing reduction methods, were higher. This indicates that integrating LID technologies with conventional reduction measures is likely the most effective approach.

Basic Study on Long-Term Changes in the Composition of Rooftop Greening Vegetation Using Artificial Soil - Focus on the Soil Analysis Results of the 20-Year Green Roof Testbed -

Basic Study on Long-Term Changes in the Composition of Rooftop Greening Vegetation Using Artificial Soil - Focus on the Soil Analysis Results of the 20-Year Green Roof Testbed -

A Study on the Indoor Heating Effect of Blue Green Roofs during Cold Waves

With the increasing frequency of heat-based climate disasters due to recent climate change, various technologies are being developed to mitigate their impacts. Blue-green roofs (BGR) is a technology that consists of rainwater storage tanks and grass layers installed on building rooftops to reduce the infiltration of cold or heat into the building interiors. This study analyzed the indoor temperature changes between two buildings with equal rooftop area, one equipped with a BGR and the other without, during winter season to evaluate their heating effects. The results indicated an average heating effect of 0.56 °C across the entire monitoring period for the building with a BGR. The heating effect was observed only at temperature ranges below 6.5 °C, with no effect at higher temperatures. This study suggests that even installing a roof-based system can provide some degree of heating benefits. Further research and development are needed to improve the heating efficien through additional technological advancements.

Implementation of smart irrigation system

Current global technology significantly impacts agriculture, with automation playing a crucial role by executing procedures without assistance from any individual. This work aims to demonstrate how an individual can set up an affordable automatic irrigation system in a few hours by connecting various electronic components and materials. A sensor-based automated irrigation system has been designed and implemented, providing widespread use and significant advantages. This system aids daily activities by saving time and reducing labor. It makes use of a sensor technology in conjunction with a microcontroller, relay, DC motor, and battery. By measuring the moisture content of the soil and turning on irrigation as necessary, the device functions as an intelligent switch. The motor automatically turns on or off based on soil dryness. Sensor readings are transmitted to a computer for graph generation and analysis, allowing easy monitoring and control via a computer. Green roofs, nurseries, greenhouses, and gardens of all sizes can use this watering system.It conserves time, energy, reduces water wastage, and simplifies irrigation planning for farmers, enhancing their management of crops.

Urban green spaces and public realm design in Cairo: Enhancing quality of life and environmental sustainability

The paper explores the pressing challenges and promising initiatives in enhancing urban green spaces and the public realm in Cairo, a metropolis grappling with rapid population growth and environmental degradation. As the city struggles with density, air pollution, and a shortage of green areas—far below the recommended standard for urban health—the article highlights key efforts to revitalize public spaces. Notable projects include the creation of large parks like Al-Azhar Park, the redevelopment of the Nile riverfront through projects such as Mamsha Ahl Misr, and the introduction of green infrastructure solutions like street trees, green roofs, and sustainable urban drainage systems. Despite these advancements, Cairo faces significant obstacles, including limited public land, budget constraints, and water scarcity. However, there are opportunities to address these challenges through innovative urban agriculture, public-private partnerships, and community participation in green space development. The paper suggests that through continued investment and thoughtful urban design, Cairo can foster a more sustainable, livable environment. By integrating green infrastructure into future development projects, the city holds potential to transform its landscape and improve the quality of life for its residents in the coming decades.

Optimize Stormwater Management for Green Roofs Based on IoT Technology and Sensor Networks

The intensification of global climate change and the significant increase of extreme rainfall events have made traditional urban drainage systems face great adjustments. As a key component of green infrastructure to avoid urban flood risk, green roofs are receiving increasing attention due to their unique capabilities in stormwater management. This paper explores the potential of Internet of Things (IoT) technology and sensor networks to enhance green roof stormwater management. Integrated real-time monitoring of key environmental parameters, including soil moisture, temperature and rainfall, enables the system to dynamically adjust roof drainage and irrigation strategies. This greatly improves the rainwater retention capacity and reduces the pressure on the municipal sewage system. The results show that the combination of IoT technology and sensor networks not only improves the efficiency of green roof management in combating climate change, but also promotes the efficient use of water resources and enhances the adaptability and sustainability of the system. This research provides the necessary technical support for the wider adoption of green roofs in urban environments and offers viable solutions to future challenges posed by climate change.

Comparative Analysis of Sponge City Drainage System Schemes Based on SWMM

In this paper, the drainage system schemes of sponge city are compared and analyzed based on Storm Water Management Model (SWMM). First, this paper builds a model in SWMM to explore the effect of green roof, rain garden and reservoir on solving the excessive pressure of urban drainage system during rainstorm, and analyzes the results of the model. Through comparative analysis, the best scheme is obtained. The results show that the green roof has the best effect among the three schemes, which can reduce the flow of the pipeline, increase the drainage cycle and thus reduce the pressure of the drainage system. Second, limited by the size of the area, it can only reduce the flow of the drainage system. The reservoir has the worst effect, mainly because the intensity is not large enough, and if it encounters greater rainfall, the reservoir can play a key role in regulating and storing. Through the analysis of the model results, an effective scheme can be obtained to relieve the pressure of urban drainage system in rainstorm, so as to reduce the drainage pipe flow and reduce the risk of urban waterlogging. The purpose of this paper is to provide effective reference for the construction of sponge city, relieve the pressure of drainage system and reduce the hidden danger of urban waterlogging.

Green Roofs in Urban Underground Buildings: Design Impact on Perceptual Comfort

Green Roofs in Urban Underground Buildings: Design Impact on Perceptual Comfort

Climate Resilience in Nigerian Construction: A Systematic Review of Strategies and Outcomes

Climate resilience in the construction sector is critical for ensuring the durability and sustainability of infrastructure amidst the increasing impacts of climate change. This study systematically reviews climate resilience strategies in the Nigerian construction sector, evaluating their effectiveness and outcomes. A comprehensive literature search yielded 50 peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and official reports, focusing on design innovations, material selection, policy frameworks, and case studies across Nigeria's diverse climatic zones. Key findings indicate that strategies such as flood barriers, green roofs, and sustainable materials are effective in mitigating climate risks, although challenges such as financial constraints, regulatory gaps, and lack of awareness persist. The study highlights the importance of community involvement, government support, and technological innovation in successfully implementing resilience measures. Comparative analysis with global best practices underscores the need for integrated approaches tailored to Nigeria's unique context. The study concludes with recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for longitudinal studies, cross-regional comparisons, and the integration of traditional knowledge. Policy implications include the development of comprehensive regulatory frameworks and public-private partnerships to enhance the sector's adaptive capacity. This research provides valuable insights and practical recommendations for enhancing climate resilience in Nigeria's construction industry, contributing to broader goals of sustainable development and climate adaptation.

Green Roofs Hydrological Performance and Contribution to Urban Stormwater Management

Green Roofs Hydrological Performance and Contribution to Urban Stormwater Management

Unirrigated extensive green roofs in humid subtropics – Plant selection and substrate design for low maintenance and climate resilience

Low-maintenance extensive green roofs hold the potential for adapting to climate change, but there is a limited understanding of their effective design in humid subtropical regions. In this study, we aimed to investigate low-maintenance green roof ecosystems capable of thriving under heat stress. Plant growth performance was evaluated in the second year of an experimental green roof in southwest China. This green roof was unirrigated and involved two plant communities (forbs and grasses) cultivated in four substrate types. Metrics of growth performance, including plant survival, green coverage, visual appearance, leaf stomatal conductance, and substrate volumetric water content were used to analyze the impact of substrate on plant growth. ESP substrate, comprising 30 %v (percent of volume) expanded shale, 25 %v perlite, 25 %v vermiculite, and 20 %v compost, featured the highest porosity and optimal growth of forbs, achieving an average green coverage of 66.76 % and average visual appearance value of 3.56 throughout the monitoring period. The high total porosity of this substrate could be critical in facilitating root development and drainage. Moreover, during the summer’s heat and drought, while substrate water content is not a limiting factor for the survival of some established forbs, it remains crucial for the growth of grasses. Additionally, the same substrate impacts different plant communities variably. Four particularly well-performing forb species, namely Lycoris chinensis, Tradescantia pallida, Liriope muscari, and Salvia farinacea, demonstrated survival rates closed to 100 % and an average visual appearance value exceeding 3 was noted, and thus, they are recommended as plant candidates for unirrigated green roofs. The distinguished performance of these species is attributable to their adaptation to heat and drought through specific physiological traits. Our findings provide insights into vegetation selection and substrate optimization for the successful establishment of extensive green roofs that could be feasibly developed without irrigation in the humid subtropical regions.

Optimizing Local Materials in Green Roofs Through Citizen Science Activities at a Primary School in Azores

Green roofs are a fundamental technology in the transformation of urban centers into more sustainable environments, with a positive impact on buildings, cities, and their inhabitants. Yet, green roof technology may require the use of materials with a high environmental impact, namely, when associated with large transport distances. The present work arises from the need to find an environmental solution to use in an eco-school on one of the Azores islands. It tests green roofs on a wooden structure using local and sustainable materials. Prototypes were built to monitor their performance and to complement the theoretical information investigated regarding the construction systems of green roofs with alternative materials. The installation of the prototypes was accompanied by the school community, and the performance was monitored. The pumice stone proved to be an efficient solution for the drainage layer of the green roof. The use of local soil (volcanic origin) instead of a commercial substrate proved to work properly, both for drainage and for vegetation growth. Finally, the results also contribute to a better understanding of green roofs on wooden structures and encourage the use of local materials in future projects, with a view towards a circular economy.

Evaluating the Potential of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Solar Energy in Urban Built Environments with Aerial Photogrammetry Dataset

Abstract. The process of urbanisation has a significant impact on climate change, with projections indicating that over 70% of the global population will live in cities by 2050. The challenges associated with climate change impacts on urban areas include urban heat islands, unsustainable water management, floods and air pollution. This study explores the potential of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and renewable energy in Torino, Italy, with a particular focus on the exploitation of rooftops for solar panels and green roofs. The data from 159 buildings in San Salvario was collected using aerial photogrammetry. The solar potential was analysed with ArcGIS, taking into account both geographic and building-specific factors. Buildings that were unsuitable for solar panels were identified for green roofs. This research supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 13 (Climate Action), and 15 (Life on Land). The annual solar potential was estimated at 100,300 kWh, with 2,450 m2 of suitable roof area for green roofs. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using rooftops to increase urban sustainability, thereby enhancing the quality of life for residents. The integration of NBS and solar energy can facilitate the creation of more sustainable and resilient urban environments. The study recommends the implementation of spatial-enabled urban planning as a means of overcoming barriers and promoting the development of green, energy-efficient communities.

New native species for extensive green roofs to enrich urban ecosystem services in semiarid regions

New native species for extensive green roofs to enrich urban ecosystem services in semiarid regions

Urban Green Infrastructures and Its Impacts on the Urban Environment: A Review

Urban green infrastructure plays a crucial role in preserving a green urban environment, thus contributing significantly to human health. The absence of such infrastructure can lead to environmental challenges, particularly in the face of escalating global urbanization. Green urban infrastructure proves essential for maintaining cleanliness in urban areas, especially as major cities worldwide grapple with escalating air pollution exacerbated by the inadequate presence of green spaces, green roofs, green walls, and domestic and private gardens emerge as noteworthy contributors to mitigating these challenges. As the global population steadily increases, a collective effort is imperative to enhance green infrastructure and cultivate public awareness to address the pressing issue of air pollution in cities. Green spaces serve as a pivotal indicator of urban verdancy, offering a myriad of benefits, including environmental cleanliness, the creation of recreational spaces, the promotion of health and well-being, the facilitation of children’s mental development, the presentation of aesthetically pleasing urban landscapes, temperature reduction, and pollution mitigation. This comprehensive review analyzed 60-70 studies on urban green infrastructures and their impacts on the urban environment. A library research methodology was used, focusing on literature from Google Scholar published in the last two decades which delves into the multifaceted aspects of urban environmental cleanliness, providing valuable insights for policymakers, and urban planners with a profound understanding of their impacts. Stakeholders can proactively implement measures to enhance cleanliness in the urban environment.

Comprehensive Assessment of the Impact of Green Roofs and Walls on Building Energy Performance: A Scientific Review

Sustainability and energy efficiency are now two pivotal goals that society aims towards. Green roofs and facades have gained significant attention in this direction for innovative, sustainable solutions for enhancing building energy performance. With a focus on sustainable urban development and energy-efficient building practices, this study delves into the intricate relationship between these green infrastructure elements and the overall energy dynamics of constructed environments. Furthermore, a range of case studies from diverse geographical locations are presented to provide valuable insights into their practical implications as emerging technologies that contribute to improved insulation, reduced heat transfer, regulating indoor temperatures, and mitigation of urban heat island effects, thus reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling and optimizing overall energy consumption. This comprehensive review serves as a dataset for understanding and highlighting all the research findings of the numerical and experimental investigations invested in the field of greenery systems to encourage their integration, which is crucial for combating climate change and pollution. Previous research is often focused on isolated, short-term, or single-climate analyses of consumption; therefore, by providing an inclusive description of their practical benefits in both temperate and extreme climates, the gap in previous articles is tackled.