Green roofs – aesthetic, protective and a pleasant place for flora and fauna

Green roofs, as they're also called, come in simple forms (for example, with low-maintenance succulents), but can also consist of lush vegetable and herb gardens or a spot where wildflowers flourish. You don't even need a green thumb for this: a thick layer of fertile soil is all it takes. Then the plants will grow naturally, thanks to birds flying overhead, dropping seeds or dropping their droppings. We'd like to list the advantages of green roofs:

1. They help regulate a building's temperature. The soil provides an extra layer of insulation, keeping it cooler inside in summer and warmer in winter.
2. They can capture a significant amount of rainwater. This water is then used by and for the plants. The soil also slows down water runoff by acting like a sponge. This relieves the burden on the sewer system and reduces the risk of flooding.
3. They provide a pleasant habitat for insects, birds, and other animals, which increases and enhances biodiversity.
4. Plants on green roofs improve air quality by absorbing CO2 and particulate matter and releasing oxygen.
5. Depending on the plants, they can absorb and reduce external noise, contributing to a quieter and more pleasant living or working environment.
6. They can extend the lifespan of the roof by protecting it from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and weather influences.
7. In combination with solar panels, they offer an additional win-win situation. The greenery naturally cools the panels, increasing their efficiency.
8. Last but not least, green roofs offer a touch of nature in urban areas, which lowers the temperature of the urban environment, thus combating heat stress and contributing to a healthier lifestyle.