Green Roofs for Schools:

Green roofs, or living roofs, have many well documented benefits which you will find mentioned throughout this site, but less well documented is the invaluable addition they can make in an educational setting such as a school or college as we will discuss.

What is a Green Roof and Why do you want it on your school or College?

A green roof system is an extension of an existing roof that includes high-quality waterproofing, a root repellent system, drainage, filter cloth, lightweight growing medium, and plants. These systems can be modular, featuring pre-prepared movable grids, or built-up, where each component is installed separately. Defined as “contained” green space atop a human-made structure, green roofs can be positioned below, at, or above ground. They offer a multitude of public and private benefits and are being increasingly successfully implemented worldwide.

Green roofs in educational settings provide numerous advantages, both specific to an educational environment and more generally in the community:

Green Roof Environmental Impacts:

• Reduced Heat Island Effect: Green roofs help cool the surrounding environment, making it more comfortable for students and staff.
• Stormwater Management: They absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and the risk of flooding, which is particularly beneficial in urban areas.
• Air Quality Improvement: Green roofs filter pollutants, leading to cleaner air around the school or college.
• Increase Biodiversity: Wildflower roofs in partciular provide a much needed diverse range of plants and wildlife to the area they are installed, often in towns and cities.

Green Roof Educational Value:

• Hands-On Learning: Green roofs serve as outdoor classrooms or laboratories where students can learn about ecology, biology, and environmental science in a practical setting.
• STEM Opportunities: Green roofs and living roof projects at schools provide a platform to integrate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) into the curriculum through real-world applications.
• Sustainability Education: Green roofs teach students about sustainability practices and environmental stewardship.

Health and Well-being:

• Mental Health Benefits: Access to green spaces has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health, creating a more conducive school learning environment.
• Physical Activity: Green roofs can serve as spaces for physical activities and outdoor classes, promoting a healthier lifestyle for students and staff.

Green Roof Economic Advantages:

• Energy Efficiency: Green roofs provide insulation, reduced energy costs and help with heating and cooling buildings.
• Extended Roof Lifespan: Green roofs protect roof membranes from UV rays and extreme temperature fluctuations, extending the lifespan of the roof.

Community and Aesthetic Value:

• Enhanced School Image: Green roofs can enhance the visual appeal of a school or college, making it a more attractive place for students, staff, and visitors.
• Community Engagement: Green roof projects can involve the local community, fostering a sense of pride and collaboration.