scholarly journals PRAIRIE-BASED GREEN ROOFS: LITERATURE, TEMPLATES, AND ANALOGS

2012 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 143-172 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard K. Sutton ◽  
John A. Harrington ◽  
Lee Skabelund ◽  
Peter MacDonagh ◽  
Reid R. Coffman ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Green Roofs ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Specific Reference ◽  
Grassland Species ◽  
Native Prairie ◽  
Ecological Literature ◽  
Growing Medium ◽  
Habitat Templates ◽  
Low Diversity ◽  
Limited Moisture

Native prairie species have been both promoted and questioned in their ability to serve as vegetative covers for green roofs. The green roof environment with its exposure to intense sun and wind and limited moisture restricts the capacity for a large diversity of species. The result has been, in many cases, a standard, low-diversity mix of Sedum species often focused on ornament and minimizes the potential for wider environmental benefits. We reviewed the ecological literature on prairie and grassland communities with specific reference to habitat templates from stressed environmental conditions and examined analogs of prairie-based vegetation on twenty-one existing green roofs. We found that many, but not all prairie and grassland species will survive and thrive on green roofs, especially when irrigated as needed or given adequate growing medium depth. We raise several important questions about media, irrigation, temperature, biodiversity and their interactions needing more study.

scholarly journals Vegetation Survival in Green Roofs without Irrigation

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anita Raimondi ◽  
Mariana Marchioni ◽  
Umberto Sanfilippo ◽  
Gianfranco Becciu
Keyword(s):  
Probabilistic Approach ◽  
Green Roofs ◽  
Design Parameters ◽  
Dry Period ◽  
Rainfall Events ◽  
Average Return ◽  
Growing Medium ◽  
A Chain ◽  
Proper Values ◽  
Stormwater Control

The implementation of green roofs as sustainable urban drainage systems provides benefits for stormwater control and the environment and is always more encouraged. In this paper, the estimation of the probability of vegetation survival without irrigation has been proposed as a guide to choose the proper values for the design parameters; in particular the growing medium thickness has been related to the average return interval of the water content at the end of the dry period. Moreover the study represents an improvement of the analytical probabilistic approach since a chain of consecutive rainfall events has been considered, in order to take into account the possibility that the storage capacity is not completely available at the beginning of each event because of the pre-filling from more than one previous rainfall as typically happens for green roofs. Finally, developed equations have been validated by means of their application to two case studies, respectively in northern and southern Italy.

Comparison of stormwater runoff from sedum, native prairie, and vegetable producing green roofs

2014 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-29 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leigh J. Whittinghill ◽  
D. Bradley Rowe ◽  
Jeffery A. Andresen ◽  
Bert M. Cregg
Keyword(s):  
Stormwater Runoff ◽  
Green Roofs ◽  
Native Prairie

scholarly journals Acoustic Characteristics of Cross-Laminated Timber Systems

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (14) ◽  
pp. 5612
Author(s):  
Antonino Di Bella ◽  
Milica Mitrovic
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Specific Reference ◽  
Acoustic Features ◽  
Acoustic Characteristics ◽  
Cross Laminated Timber ◽  
Acoustic Modelling ◽  
Improve Measurement ◽  
Reference Curves ◽  
Definition Of ◽  
Building Elements

The growing diffusion of cross-laminated timber structures (CLT) has been accompanied by extensive research on the peculiar characteristics of this construction system, mainly concerning its economic and environmental benefits, lifecycle, structural design, resistance to seismic actions, fire protection, and energy efficiency. Nevertheless, some aspects have not yet been fully analysed. These include both the knowledge of noise protection that CLT systems are able to offer in relation to the possible applications and combinations of building elements, and the definition of calculation methods necessary to support the acoustic design. This review focuses on the main acoustic features of CLT systems and investigate on the results of the most relevant research aimed to provide key information on the application of acoustic modelling in CLT buildings. The vibro-acoustic behaviour of the basic component of this system and their interaction through the joints has been addressed, as well as the possible ways to manage acoustic information for calculation accuracy improvement by calibration with data from on-site measurements during the construction phase. This study further suggests the opportunity to improve measurement standards with specific reference curves for the bare CLT building elements, in order to compare different acoustic linings and assemblies on the same base. In addition, this study allows to identify some topics in the literature that are not yet fully clarified, providing some insights on possible future developments in research and for the optimization of these products.

Hydrogen Use in an Urban District: Energy and Environmental Comparisons

2010 ◽  
Vol 132 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Michela Vellini ◽  
Jacopo Tonziello
Keyword(s):  
Hydrogen Production ◽  
Greenhouse Gas ◽  
Environmental Impacts ◽  
Coal Gasification ◽  
Greenhouse Gas Emission ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Specific Reference ◽  
Urban District ◽  
Energy Needs ◽  
Hypothetical Scenario

Hydrogen technology is becoming ever more relevant because hydrogen use can help in containing greenhouse gas emission if CO2 capture and storage technologies are implemented in the hydrogen production pathway (when hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels). This work aims at carrying out a comparative analysis of possible energy scenarios in urban districts. A medium-small Italian city is considered as a reference case, and its energy consumption both for domestic and industrial use is evaluated. The current situation in which conventional technologies meet the energy needs is compared with a hypothetical scenario where hydrogen is largely used. Two options of hydrogen production from commercially ready technologies are investigated: coal gasification and steam methane reforming, as well as hydrogen use in advanced energy systems for transports and for thermal and electric energy generations. Also, the environmental impacts are evaluated. This study is particularly focused on greenhouse gas emissions with specific reference to carbon dioxide. The final goal is to define an alternative scenario, quantifying the energy needs and the relative environmental impacts in order to obtain quantitative information on the environmental benefits of the hydrogen scenario, as well as to identify its possible structural and functional criticalities.

scholarly journals Technical considerations in green roof retrofit for stormwater attenuation in the Central Business District

2015 ◽  
Vol 33 (1) ◽  
pp. 36-51 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara Wilkinson ◽  
Jessica Lamond ◽  
David G Proverbs ◽  
Lucy Sharman ◽  
Allison Heller ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Built Environment ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Energy Use ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Green Roof ◽  
Green Roofs ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Design Stage ◽  
Due Diligence ◽  
Content Type

Purpose – The key aspects that built environment professionals need to consider when evaluating roofs for the purpose of green roof retrofit and also when assessing green roofs for technical due diligence purposes are outlined. Although green or sod roofs have been built over many centuries, contemporary roofs adopt new approaches and technologies. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – A mixed methods design based on a systematic review of relevant literature from parallel disciplines was used to identify and quantify the social, economic and environmental benefits of retrofitted green roofs in commercial districts. The technical issues of concern were drawn from a desk-top survey of literature and from stakeholder focus groups undertaken in Sydney in 2012. Findings – There are perceptions amongst built environmental practitioners that may act as artificial barriers to uptake. There is little direct experience within built environment professionals and practitioners, along with a fear of the unknown and a risk averse attitude towards perceived innovation which predicates against green roof retrofit. Furthermore projects with green roofs at inception and early design stage are often “value engineered” out of the design as time progresses. There is a need for best practice guidance notes for practitioners to follow when appraising roofs for retrofit and also for technical due diligence purposes. Research limitations/implications – The focus groups are limited to Sydney-based practitioners. Although many of these practitioners have international experience, few had experience of green roofs. A limited number of roof typologies were considered in this research and some regions and countries may adopt different construction practices. Practical implications – In central business districts the installation of green roof technology is seen as one of the main contributors to water sensitive urban design (WSUD). It is likely that more green roofs will be constructed over time and practitioners need knowledge of the technology as well as the ability to provide best advice to clients. Originality/value – The benefits of green roofs as part of WSUD are increasingly being recognised in terms of reduced flood risk, reduced cost of drainage, improved water quality and lower energy use, as well as other less tangible aspects such as aesthetics and amenity. This research highlights the lack of understanding of the short- and long-term benefits, a poor appreciation and awareness of these benefits; a lack of technical knowledge and issues to be considered with regard to green roofs on behalf of practitioners. The study has highlighted the need for specific training and up-skilling in these areas to provide surveyors with the technical expertise needed. There is also a need to consider how the emerging retrofit and adaptation themes are best designed into the curriculum at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Clearly, if the potential benefits of green roofs are to be realised in the future, building professionals need to be fully conversant with the technology and be able to provide reliable and accurate advice.

Soil and plant response to wellsite rehabilitation on native prairie in southeastern Alberta, Canada

2003 ◽  
Vol 83 (5) ◽  
pp. 507-519 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. M. Hammermeister ◽  
M. A. Naeth ◽  
J. J. Schoenau ◽  
V. O. Biederbeck
Keyword(s):  
Biomass Production ◽  
Plant Uptake ◽  
Nitrogen Availability ◽  
Carbon Allocation ◽  
Petroleum Industry ◽  
N Availability ◽  
Higher Plant ◽  
Available N ◽  
Native Prairie ◽  
Low Diversity

Rehabilitation of disturbed native prairie is a challenge facing many in the petroleum industry, with implications for prairie ecology and productivity. The purpose of this research was to examine the relative influence of four rehabilitation strategies on biogeochemical processes (i.e., nitrogen availability, plant uptake of nitrogen, biomass production, carbon allocation, and soil biological activity). Seven petroleum wellsites were selected on Chernozemic and Solonetzic soils in southeastern Alberta. Undisturbed native prairie was compared with four seeding treatments: not seeded, a low diversity seed mix commonly used by industry, a low diversity mix of species more typically dominant in native prairie, and a diverse seed mix. Flux of NO3− and NH4+were measured in situ using ion exchange membranes. Soil total C and N were lower and available N higher as a result of disturbance. In the seeded treatments, biomass production was higher and soil nitrogen flux was lower due to higher plant uptake than in the unseeded treatment. Higher initial N availability favoured species with rapid growth and colonization rates, particularly Agropyron dasystachyum [(Hook.) Scribn.] and Agropyron trachycaulum [(Link) Malte]. Seed mix composition and species attributes were deemed to have greater influence on N cycling and biomass production than seed mix diversity. Key words: Nitrogen cycling, plant competition, secondary succession, wheatgrass, biodiversity, prairie

scholarly journals Irrigation Lowers Substrate Temperature and Enhances Survival of Plants on Green Roofs in the Southeastern United States

2011 ◽  
Vol 21 (5) ◽  
pp. 586-592 ◽  
Author(s):  
Julie Guckenberger Price ◽  
Stephen A. Watts ◽  
Amy N. Wright ◽  
Robert W. Peters ◽  
Jason T. Kirby
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Southeastern United States ◽  
Green Roof ◽  
Empirical Evaluation ◽  
Green Roofs ◽  
The United States ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Plant Selection ◽  
Soil Temperatures ◽  
Cold Hardy

Green roofs are becoming increasingly prevalent in the United States due to their economical and environmental benefits as compared with conventional roofs. Plant selection for green roofs in the variable climate of the southeastern United States has not been well evaluated. Shallow substrates on green roofs provide less moderation of temperature and soil moisture than deeper soils in traditional landscapes, necessitating empirical evaluation in green roof environments to make informed recommendations for green roof plant selection. Nineteen species and cultivars, including succulents, grasses, and forbs, were evaluated under seasonal irrigated and non-irrigated conditions in experimental green roofs. Plants were planted on 26 Oct. 2009 and each evaluated for survival and increase in two-dimensional coverage of the substrate during establishment, after overwintering, and after the first growing season. The winter 2009–10 was colder than normal, and some plants, such as ice plants (Delosperma spp.), considered to be cold-hardy in this climate did not survive through the winter. Irrigation influenced survival for the summer period and only succulent plants like stonecrops (Sedum spp.) survived without irrigation. Irrigated experimental green roofs had significantly lower summer substrate temperatures (up to 20 °F lower) and plants survived in irrigated conditions. Plants that survived both winter and summer under irrigated conditions include pussytoes (Antennaria plantaginifolia), mouse-ear tickseed (Coreopsis auriculata), eastern bottlebrush grass (Elymus hystrix), glade cleft phlox (Phlox bifida stellaria), and eggleston's violet (Viola egglestonii). Irrigation is recommended on extensive green roofs to increase the palette for plant selection by protecting against plant mortality due to drought and extreme soil temperatures.

scholarly journals Physiological and Morphological Traits and Competence for Carbon Sequestration of Several Green Roof Plants under a Controlled Environmental System

2016 ◽  
Vol 141 (6) ◽  
pp. 583-590 ◽  
Author(s):  
Takanori Kuronuma ◽  
Hitoshi Watanabe
Keyword(s):  
Carbon Sequestration ◽  
Biomass Allocation ◽  
Morphological Traits ◽  
Growth Analysis ◽  
Green Roof ◽  
Green Roofs ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Environmental System ◽  
Whole Plant ◽  
Morphological Responses

The physiological and morphological traits of green roof plants are key to understanding the environmental benefits of green roofs. However, the comparative investigation of physiological and morphological traits of green roof plants is limited. Moreover, there have been few studies on the relevance of physiological and morphological traits and competence for carbon sequestration of green roof plants. In particular, Sedum L. species are generally regarded as crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) plants, but several Sedum species are recognized as having an “inducible type of CAM.” These plants are C3 and C4 plants, with the ability to switch their carbon metabolism to the CAM pathway. In the case of Sedum, the inducer of CAM is drought stress. This observation suggests that differences in water regimes result in physiological and morphological changes that may have a considerable effect on the environmental benefits of Sedum green roofs. The purpose of this study is to compare the physiological and morphological traits of four green roof plants and discuss the influence of these traits on their environmental benefits under a controlled environmental system. In addition, we attempted to clarify the relevance of physiological and morphological traits and competence for carbon sequestration in each plant using growth analysis. We used Sedum mexicanum Briton, Sedum aizoon L., Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr., and Ophiopogon japonicus (Thunb.) Ker Gawl. in this study, and only the two Sedum species were assigned treatments with different frequency of irrigation to investigate physiological and morphological responses and variation in carbon sequestration. The two Sedum species exhibited the C3 photosynthetic pathway in wet and dry treatments, implying the inducible type of CAM. Morphological responses of the two Sedum species were significantly affected by the different frequencies of irrigation; plants responded to increases in below-ground resources (water and nutrients) with increased biomass allocation of leaves and stems. Owing to these physiological and morphological responses in the wet treatment, transpiration rates and competence for carbon sequestration [relative C sequestration rate per whole-plant C content (RGRc)] of the two Sedum species were higher than those of Z. matrella and O. japonicus. This result suggested that the cooling effect and carbon sequestration of Sedum in wet and increased nutrient conditions are equivalent to those observed in other plants. In addition, the net assimilation rate (NARc) and leaf area ratio per whole-plant C content (LARc) were significantly correlated with photosynthetic rates and biomass allocation. Thus, it became clear that growth analysis can reveal the relevance of physiological (NARc) and morphological (LARc) traits and RGRc. Our results will serve as a baseline of the physiological and morphological traits and carbon sequestration of green roof plants and contribute to more suitable design and maintenance of vegetation in green roofs.

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