A green roof is a vegetated roof that provides a number of environmental and financial benefits.
The soil and vegetation used provides insulation that lowers heating and cooling bills by as much as 25%, protects sensitive roofing materials from UV and weather damage, and reduces the heat-island effects of development.
The green roof absorbs and retains stormwater that would otherwise have to be collected and discharged into wetlands and watercourses, potentially adding to flood conditions.
The vegetation provides rooftop habitat for birds that is safe from predators.
Where accessible, green roofs can be used to provide gardens for flowers and vegetables.