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LOBBYING THE GOVERNMENT FOR A POLICY ON GREEN ROOFS IN THE UK

The Green Roof Campaign aims to raise support from the construction industry, politicians, local government, scientists and the general public to develop a solid Government policy to encourage the use of green roofs in the UK.

In the initial stages, the Green Roof Campaign aims to canvass opinion as to what such a policy should contain.

BACKGROUND

The environmental benefits of green roofs are well understood and accepted. However, the UK lags behind many other countries and cities when it comes to policies encouraging the use of green roofs on buildings. For example, to reduce heat build-up Chicago in the USA has passed codes offering incentives to developers who install green roofs on buildings. In Portland, to reduce flood risk, all city-owned buildings are required to be built with a green roof that covers at least 70% of the structure.

In Basel, Switzerland, building regulations stipulate that all new and renovated flat roofed buildings must have a green roof installed. As a result 15% of all flat roofs in the city now have green roofs, saving energy and creating important habitats for wildlife.  

To improve stormwater management and improve air quality, the city of Munster in Germany has introduced a stormwater fee according to the amount of water that runs off a building into the sewer system. This fee is reduced by up to 80% if a green roof has been installed.

These are all examples of the ways in which government can encourage and increase the use of green roofs.

Sign the petition

If you would like to register your support for the Green Roof Campain by signing our on line petition, then click the 'register your support' button.