This course explores the innovative, sustainable solution of green roofs, which are rapidly becoming a crucial component in urban planning and environmental design.

Green Roofs, or vegetative roofing systems, provide an effective way to reduce environmental impacts while enhancing urban spaces. Through careful design, they can also help reduce the burden on urban drainage systems, lower energy costs, and promote biodiversity. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Green Roofs play a vital role in stormwater management—a growing concern in cities facing the challenges of climate change and urban sprawl.

In this program, you’ll learn how to design and implement green roofs that are both functional and sustainable, with a focus on their ability to handle stormwater efficiently. By the end, you’ll have a deeper understanding of how green roofs contribute to environmental resilience and sustainability in modern cities. Lunch will be provided.

Learning Objectives:

1. The components which make up these systems, the range of options for each component type, and their benefits and drawbacks
2. Strategies for integrating planting beds with adjacent hardscapes to maximize water detention and retention in green roofs
3. Several types of green roof systems, as well as advantages and disadvantages of these systems with regard to site conditions and project goals
4. Structural, drainage, and waterproofing considerations at transitions between planted and paved areas

Credits: 1 AIA LU (HSW)