The EcoCenter's Living Roof to be included in a city-wide study

Lisa Lee Benjamin of Evocatalyst who designed the living roof and constructed wetland came to the EcoCenter today to discuss her design and research work on green roofs both worldwide. She gave students a background on the research evidence that makes the economic, environmental, and public health case for this type of greening in the built environment.  Green rooftops lower heating and cooling loads and costs, help mitigate both the urban heat island effect and climate change, manage stormwater, and provide habitat especially when cultivated with native species.  They last longer than traditional rooftops and can be cheaper to install and maintain.  The green rooftop at the EcoCenter will be part of a city wide study starting in March 2013.