Green roofs are flat roofs planted with tolerant plant species that absorb, filter and store rain and snowmelt. While typically found on office or commercial buildings, green roofs can be installed on residential homes and garages. Because they provide an added layer of insulation, they offer the additional benefit of decreasing energy bills during the winters and summers.
Green roofs, such as the one atop the Phillips Eco-Enterprise Center in Minneapolis, also are great places for employees to take a break and enjoy nature in an urban setting.
For More Information
- Green roofs in the Minnesota Stormwater Manual from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
- Green Roofs for Healthy Cities
- The Minnesota Green Roof Profile (pdf) is a great resource of local green roofs