Great Plains LID Research and Innovation Symposium and Low Impact Development Design Competition

How Green Roof Policy Works

Andy Creath, LEED AP, from Green Roofs of Colorado, LLC

Track: Policy

Abstract:

This presentation will target individuals that have the ability to create and/or implement stormwater-based policy.

Green roofs are considered by most professionals within the stormwater industry to be a viable green infrastructure option. Yet there are a limited number of policies, initiatives, or programs that officially accept or give credit to the performance of this technology as a viable design alternative or potential substitute to standard management facilities. This presentation will walk the audience through the basic performance and benefits of a green roof to clarify any misunderstandings of this technology.

This presentation will also showcase numerous case studies of where green roof policy has been created and implemented across North America. It will provide insight into what strategies have been successful; others that have struggled, and given answers to questions decision makers may be facing in their current policy efforts.

Finally this presentation will also touch on why it is important for decision makers to work with groups such as Green Roofs for Healthy Cities and utilize their Policy Educator and Ambassador program to help create policies that support this valuable green infrastructure element and technology. It will also give them the tools they need to go back to their regions and start to develop this type of policy in their own backyards.