BERNICE WONG

Finding out about biological concrete actually reminds me of green-roofing, which (from what I know) is the idea of planting grass and other plant life on the rooftops of buildings for a variety of economic and sustainability benefits.

My friend’s father [excuse the shameless advertising] actually manages the Vancouver branch of Architek: a living architecture technology company who recently completed the green roof installation at Van Dusen Gardens.

Both these initiatives, green roofing and living building architecture, are great, and are reminiscent of The Eight Reasons Sustainability will Change Management!

From an economic perspective:

1. Green roofing retains water, which reduce drainage costs resulting from heavy rainwater (I mean, we live in Vancouver)

• Cost advantages!

2. Reduces sound reflection, for those who live near busy roads

• Innovative way to enhance efficiency, and maybe even sell more houses because homeowners won’t be so put off by living close to a main street

3. As with biological concrete, green roofing improves an area’s climate and livability:  green roofs humidify and filter dust in the air

• AND looks way better. Seriously:

My favourite part about green roofing is the potential for some apartment buildings to turn their roofs into gardens! Vancouver is quickly turning into a high-rise city, especially in suburban areas of Burnaby and New Westminster. For those individuals who can’t afford houses, but still want the back-yard feel, a green roof can provide that!