Volume 52, December 2015, Pages 669–679
Abstract
Green
roofs are an increasingly important component of water-sensitive urban
design systems that can potentially improve the quality of urban runoff,
reduce the energy consumption of buildings, and add esthetic value to
the environment. The most important green roof abilities, which appear
as a key feature in urban catchments are the ability of rainwater
detention and retention and reduction in energy consumption. This paper
aims to provide an overview of the effects of the application of the
green roof strategy on the quality of runoff water and the reduction of
energy consumption. The components of a green roof are discussed, and
the advantages and disadvantages of different types of green roofs are
assessed. In addition, the origins and concentrations of the main
pollutants are discussed, moreover environmental cost-benefits of green
roofs are also considered. In addition, the main factors that affect the
quality of green roof runoff water, e.g., plant species, fertilization,
pH, growth media as well as how green roofs could reduce energy
consumption are discussed. Green roofs are considered as sustainable
approach for runoff management with achieved aesthetical values and in
combination with energy saving on heating/cooling. Hence, green roof
causes a sufficient decrease in energy consumption and consequently in
the related energy costs. It can help to improve the micro climate
around the buildings and save money and also improve water quality.
Therefore, green roofs may turn into a profitable investment. Some
recommendations for future study also are proposed.
Keywords
- Green roof;
- Water quality runoff;
- Nitrogen;
- Phosphorus;
- Energy consumption
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Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
