Canadian Standards Association and Green Roof Industry Developing Best Practices Standard (CSA A123.28)
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Introduction
The new Canadian Standards Association A123.28 Standard, Best Practices for Climate Resilient Vegetated Roof Assemblies, is expected to be released for public review in the Fall of 2026. This draft Standard provides guidance for the design, material selection, construction, and maintenance of vegetated roof assemblies for evolving climate challenges. It seeks to address and range of climate related issues including:
More intense rainfall events
Higher wind loads and extreme weather
Extended drought periods
Increased temperatures
Wildfire risk
Biodiversity loss
The goal is to meet today's green roof performance requirements and help roof assemblies remain functional, durable, and effective throughout their service life as climate conditions continue to change.
Staff inspecting a green roof outside a City of Vancouver office. Photo: Jamie Huang
You Are Invited to Participate
The public review period will be open for approximately 60 days, providing an important opportunity for industry professionals to review the draft and submit comments. We invited designers, contractors, consultants, manufacturers, researchers, building owners, and regulators to participate and help shape this important new Canadian Standard.
To Have Your Say
In order to comment on the draft Standard, you will need to create a CSA Public Review account. Please go here (https://publicreview.csa.ca/) to establish one. Then watch for the official public review announcement this Fall. GRHC will post news of this in its bi-weekly e-newsletter. Review the draft and submit your comments during the review period.
Conclusion
Strong industry participation is essential to ensure CSA A123.28 reflects a wide range of practical experience, technical expertise, and the needs of our industry. We encourage everyone involved in vegetated roof systems to make their voice heard. Developing systems that are climate resilient is important for the industry’s long term development.
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Roxanne Miller, AAPQ, APPC, CSLA is the Sales Director for Soprema’s SOPRANATURE, a board member of GRHC and the Chair of the CSA Technical Committee that has been developing this standard with industry participation.
