These are some reasons that Green Roofs play an essential role in maintaining the ecological integrity on otherwise paved areas:
1. Reduce the amount of heat in crowded cities- reducing the temperature up to 10 degrees F than in less developed areas. They cause a cooling of the air.
2. Reduce the temperatures of entire cities by 5 degrees F according to Gilhooley Consulting’s Pamela Nelly.
3. Reduce the amount of storm water that runs off buildings by 50% to 90%.
4. Create a wonderful environment for wildlife, such as for butterfly and birds to dwell.
5. Can reduce the amount of noise pollution (such as in or near airports and factories).
6. Reduce the amount of toxins in the air, such as dust and smog.
7. Wall planters can create a living wall or a living fence planted with vegetables and herbs.
8. Create a community garden or garden room setting area.
9. Can cut the cost of building air conditioning up to 50% and the heating cost up to 25%.
10. Can extend the life of the roof membrane by 15% by protecting it from the elements.
The following are some statistics and predictions on the use of Green Roofs in the future:
1. It is predicted that Green Roofs and Green Walls will rise 70% over the next 5 years.
2. Green Roofs will become a $7.7 billion dollar market by 2017, driven by mandates and incentives in cities over the globe.
3. Green Roofs will redefine sustainability in the context of building design.
4. The initiative Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) included Atlanta, Chicago, New York, Toronto, Portland Oregon and Washington D.C. These cities were early adopters of Green Roofs.
5. Ten acres of Detroit’s Ford Motor Co. has developed landscaping on roofs.
6. Some municipalities require certain new buildings to have Green Roofs.
7. GRHC reported that in the last year alone North American Green Roofs grew by 24%.
8. The cost of a Green Roof is from $10 to $24 per sq. ft.; and up to 50% cheaper when roof areas exceed 10,000 sq. ft. Green Roofs will significantly increase property value.