Summer 2024: The Water Issue

Climate change intensifies storms, overwhelming stormwater infrastructure, causing flooding, property damage, and loss of life. Solutions include green and blue roofs, and "sponge cities" to improve stormwater management.

As Toronto co-hosts the 20th Anniversary of CitiesAlive in November, this article chronicles the early policy steps taken by the City to mandate and incentivize green roofs, now covering more than 10 million sf of roof area. 

This article highlights the significance of water on biodiverse green roofs. Designing a green roof for Berry Architecture, Pohl emphasizes the transformative power of water features, contributing to urban biodiversity while requiring minimal maintenance.

Founded in 2005, Skyland USA pioneered green roof soil products, adapting to industry demands over 20 years. With innovative blends and strategic partnerships, they've installed 30 million square feet nationwide, catalyzing the growth of green infrastructure in the US.

An overview of the severity of the international water crisis and efforts to address it in Europe through green infrastructure policies and regulations, including the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive and the recent adoption of the Nature Restoration Law.

A unique application of green facade technology creates impressive structures which conserve water over parking structures at the Bluffs at Playa Vista in Los Angeles. 

Planning a green roof irrigation system requires careful design, collaboration, and maintenance. Key elements include selecting appropriate water sources, ensuring adequate water pressure, choosing efficient irrigation devices, and regular system maintenance for optimal performance.

Rain gardens offer multifunctional stormwater management, integrating native plants to mitigate urban runoff. By mimicking natural water cycles, they complement traditional infrastructure, fostering resilience and biodiversity in urban landscapes.

Discover Etera Sedum's strategic relocation from Mount Vernon to Forest Grove, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. Their holistic approach sets a precedent for eco-conscious nursery transfers and harmonious growth.

"Sponge Cities" utilize green infrastructure to manage stormwater, combat flooding, and enhance urban resilience by naturally absorbing and repurposing rainwater. This sustainable approach addresses challenges from extreme weather and urban sprawl, transforming cities into greener, more sustainable environments.

The Auckland Botanic Gardens transformed water challenges into ecological opportunities, showcasing innovative water-sensitive design and native plant integration. This case study previews the World Green Infrastructure Congress in Auckland, promoting sustainable urban development.

In this episode, Sustainable Futures sits down with climate science pioneer Dr. Cynthia Rosenzweig to discuss the impacts and opportunities of climate change on our urban environments and how we can create more resilient communities.

Green roofs and photovoltaic arrays can coexist, enhancing biodiversity and solar energy generation. In a simulated study, pollinator plants thrived better under PV arrays due to favorable microclimate conditions, suggesting benefits for urban habitat diversity and plant establishment.

Green roofs can sequester carbon dioxide, but their contribution is often overlooked. Plants on green roofs allocate more biomass below ground to cope with stress and benefit from symbiotic fungi. This suggests green roofs significantly aid in carbon sequestration.

GRHC has launched CitiesAlive 20th anniversary in toronto nov. 6-9 with a July 31st early bird rate; a new green roof solar pv integration design course online, and released its summer sale on water courses.