What is a Green Roof and its relevance to LEED?

A Green Roof is defined as a roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation, offering a range of environmental and economic benefits. Its relevance to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) lies in its contribution to sustainable practices in building design.

Specifically, a Green Roof plays a critical role in stormwater management by absorbing rainwater, which helps to reduce runoff and mitigate flooding. This absorption also reduces the burden on urban drainage systems. Additionally, Green Roofs are effective in promoting energy efficiency by providing insulation, which can lower heating and cooling costs for buildings. They help to reduce the urban heat island effect, leading to a more comfortable city environment and improved air quality.

These benefits align directly with the goals of LEED, which seeks to promote sustainable building practices. By incorporating Green Roofs, projects can gain points towards LEED certification under various categories such as Sustainable Sites and Energy and Atmosphere, thus highlighting their relevance in the LEED framework.