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Growing Up Green
Vegetated roofing is experiencing a growth spurt across the U.S. Projects have been appearing on federal buildings in the nation’s capitol; on commercial projects as far west as California; and on various buildings in our nation’s heartland, where Chicago boasts the largest area of vegetated roofing in North America with about 4 million square feet (371600 m2). With President Barack Obama’s focus on the environment, green roofs likely will continue their upward climb. The benefits of vegetated roofs, such as sound insulation, possible reduced heating and cooling costs, the potential to reduce or eliminate roof drains, aesthetics, habitat for birds and insects, and food production make them a sustainable choice for urban environments. The Fairmont Waterfront Hotel in Van- couver, British Columbia, Canada, grew herbs, flowers and vegetables on its 2,100-square-foot (195-m2) acces- sible roof and saved $30,000 per year in food costs, according to Toronto-based Green Roofs for Healthy Cities. The GRHC “Third Annu
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Mountain Home Provides Green Installation
Oregon’s Hood River Valley offers year-round recreational opportunities with skiing on Mt. Hood, hiking through forest lands and fishing in clear waters. Outside of Parkdale, Tom Kelly and his wife Barbara Woodford found a spot amidst this rugged setting to build a mountain home.
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