tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63456288233534316642024-03-13T06:05:33.568-04:00Clean Air through Green RoofsA blog dedicated to the green roof, better air quality and air pollution prevention. Green roofs appear to be the most cost-effective solution to control urban air pollution and help manage storm water run-off. Copyright 2017.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-18709764446732402572017-04-06T17:24:00.000-04:002017-04-06T17:24:21.012-04:00Great Green Roof Netherlands!We know the Dutch love bikes, and the benefits they bring to both rider and environment. We also know (and love!) green roofs. Leave it to the Dutch to put the two together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgAPX9NA2Ww/WOaw6wru9lI/AAAAAAAAAOY/KCY9TtrPtHs_ZBg3LFCYBKnpZylOZwLLACLcB/s1600/Dafne-Schippers-Bicycle-Bridge6-889x708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgAPX9NA2Ww/WOaw6wru9lI/AAAAAAAAAOY/KCY9TtrPtHs_ZBg3LFCYBKnpZylOZwLLACLcB/s320/Dafne-Schippers-Bicycle-Bridge6-889x708.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture from inhabitat.com</td></tr>
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In a recent article from <a href="http://inhabitat.com/new-dutch-bicycle-bridge-doubles-as-a-green-roof-for-a-school/?utm_source=Inhabitat+Weekly+Mailing+List+2&utm_campaign=df878d7adb-&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_87a7bf0b92-df878d7adb-207226581" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Inhabitat.com</a>, the city of Utrecht has built a bike path that crosses the Amsterdam-Rhine canal. Additionally, this winding and purposeful path.<br />
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From the article: "The bridge itself is approximately 360 feet and connects the old part of
Utrecht with the new district Leidsche Rijn... The path leads through the green roof of a local Montessori school."<br />
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The project was designed by <a href="http://www.nextarchitects.com/">NEXT Architects</a>, and opened April 3rd, 2017. They even have a nifty animation! <br />
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WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-32619453954501723402011-07-01T18:05:00.000-04:002017-04-06T17:32:24.179-04:00Of Green Roofs, Mickey Mouse, and Petit ErmitageWhat does Micky Mouse have in common with a chic West Hollywood hotel? A green roof! Yes, its true. Whether you are eating a $4.00 churro or drinking a $15 martini, you will see vegetation on the roof.<br />
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While traveling through Southern California, I stayed at <a href="http://www.petitermitage.com/">Petit Ermitage</a> in West Hollywood. A great, small hotel, it has a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rooftop-Terrace-Gardens-step-step/dp/0470517611?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">rooftop garden</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0470517611" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> with lots of great plants. National Geographic had a blog post by Lawrence Ferber about it from September 10, 2010, but it is no longer available. I found a pdf of the article. It reads in part:<br />
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<i> Even for Hollywood, boutique hotel Petit Ermitage boasts bragging rights to possibly the most exclusive regulars that frequent its gorgeous, private rooftop deck: hummingbirds. The National Wildlife Federation recognizes the space as a butterfly and hummingbird sanctuary. </i><br />
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<i>Tucked within a residential crevice between busy Santa Monica and Sunset Boulevards, the greenery-nestled Private Rooftop Club and restaurant is one of Petit Ermitage's star attractions. </i><br />
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Chef Antonishek grows fresh herbs and produce on the deck's garden, including parsley, rosemary, peppermint, tomatoes, strawberries and kumquats, for use in dishes... <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4EyYd2FKgkI/WOazqKjQ8kI/AAAAAAAAAOk/3mMVPDFXbjsSo7ZVZ0Ed-_5XCUrs4I5sgCLcB/s1600/petit%2Bermitage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4EyYd2FKgkI/WOazqKjQ8kI/AAAAAAAAAOk/3mMVPDFXbjsSo7ZVZ0Ed-_5XCUrs4I5sgCLcB/s1600/petit%2Bermitage.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Courtesy Tracygallagher.com</i></td></tr>
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I enjoyed my stay and would recommend it my readers. The room was well appointed and comfortable. I wandered down the halls admiring the extensive art collection. The obvious question is why would I leave this wonderful location for <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Disneylands-Hidden-Mickeys-Disneyland-Best-Kept/dp/188714093X?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Disneyland</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=188714093X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> in Annaheim. The answer is simple: my kids.<br />
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While at Disneyland, we stayed at the <a href="http://disneyland.disney.go.com/grand-californian-hotel/">Grand Californian Hotel</a>. Done in American Craftsman style, the enormous great lobby has very tastefully done fake rocks and wooden beams. It is a nice place and the accommodations were nice. However, the green roof was found in the park itself.<br />
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Right across from Big Thunder Barbecue was this small snack shop with its green roof. I almost missed it, as subtly blends in with the rest of the vegetation.<br />
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Many criticize Disney for its inaccurate representations of history and foreign culture, but you look hard, you can find some very sophisticated gardening and a tremendous variety of vegetation.<br />
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For a short trip to California, I managed to take in two green roofs, though I missed the monster of them all, the <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/california-academy-of-sciences-25-acre.html">California Academy of Science</a>s, in San Francisco. I will let you know the next time I head out there, as it is pretty amazing.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-70564071607790358732011-07-01T16:26:00.000-04:002017-04-06T17:49:57.963-04:00Green Roof Video Friday - The SolaireI hope you enjoy this video about the <a href="http://www.thesolaire.com/">Solaire</a>, an apartment building in New York City with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Green-Roof-Manual-Professional-Installation/dp/1604690496?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">two green roofs</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1604690496" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />. The building also has on-site water treatment as well as a 33 KW solar system. It is LEED Gold (the first multi-family high rise to do so)!<br />
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One of the most important elements of the green roofs on the Solaire is that they reduce <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Storm-Water-Pollution-Control-Construction/dp/0070173885?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">storm water runoff</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0070173885" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />. In New York City, property owners are assessed a tax based on the volume of storm water runoff. Fortunately, there is a tax reduction if the building has a green roof.<br />
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The green roofs also reduce the heating and cooling costs by insulating the roof for both the heat of the sun, as well cold winds. The green roof also reduce the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Daytime-high-rise-high-density-residential-developments/dp/B000RQZRG4?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">heat island effect</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000RQZRG4" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />, which is when buildings in large cities absorb the heat of the sun and release the heat through convection. This convection can raise the city's temperature over 6 degrees Fahrenheit. <br />
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<br />WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-73086814898210163192011-06-08T13:51:00.001-04:002017-04-06T17:58:52.460-04:00Guest Blogger Post: Benefits of Green Roofing by Taylor Dardan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CfVJZ89SYe4/WOa5ReDChLI/AAAAAAAAAO0/ltqVrNpDMPY1Z6mhis_cZdR7ODvGt_AhACLcB/s1600/2-Flynn-Green-Roof-TD-2200x900_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CfVJZ89SYe4/WOa5ReDChLI/AAAAAAAAAO0/ltqVrNpDMPY1Z6mhis_cZdR7ODvGt_AhACLcB/s400/2-Flynn-Green-Roof-TD-2200x900_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Courtesy flynncompanies.com</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I would like to welcome Taylor Dardan as a guest blogger and present his post, "Benefits of Green Roofing." Please enjoy his writing and encourage others to write about green roofs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/G-I-Y-Roof-Workbook-Learn-Yourself-Guidebook/dp/B0032R8BUO?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Green
roofs</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0032R8BUO" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> are increasingly popular globally because of their financial and
environmental benefits. Green roofs can be used in residential as well as
commercial real estate.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">A
major concept with all green technologies is the financial savings. Green roofs are estimated to last
almost twice as long as conventional roofs, with reducing maintenance and
replacement costs. Green roofing also helps with savings on heating and cooling
costs. </span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">When
referring to the exterior of buildings and homes, green roofing has a huge
positive impact on outdoor air quality. Many green roofing systems involve the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://energycenter.org/index.php/technical-assistance/green-building/1756-growing-green-roofs"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">absorption</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> of carbon dioxide, and
other air pollutants in the process. The plants produce oxygen, while consuming
carbon dioxide. Green roofing also
combats smog, and lowers other types of air pollution. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://withfriendship.com/images/i/40148/what-is-a-green-roof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://withfriendship.com/images/i/40148/what-is-a-green-roof.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Green
roofing also provides benefits toward reduction of indoor toxins as well. Indoor air quality is often
compromised by toxins such as </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.epa.gov/mold/"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">mold</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.asbestosexposure.org/"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">asbestos exposure</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">, and other </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.planetagenda.com/chemicals.htm"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">harmful chemicals</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">. The use and
installation of green roofing systems can reduce the presence of potential of
health risks related to these toxins. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Installing
a green roofing system is a very serious undertaking. The benefits of using
green roofing should continue to grow as the technology becomes more advanced
and the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2010/06/some-green-roof-reading.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">knowledge</span></a></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> spreads. The decision
to switch to greener roofing, improves the environment, but also can improve
your health and reduce your costs.</span></span></div>
WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-48005760464176697002010-08-03T17:11:00.000-04:002010-08-03T17:11:35.305-04:00New Mexico Highlands University's Green Roof<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/14430_diamond385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/14430_diamond385.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diamond and Schmitt Architects</td></tr>
</tbody></table>New Mexico Highland University, in Las Vegas, NM, was in need a of new student center built with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sustainable-Construction-Building-Design-Delivery/dp/0470114215?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">sustainable building</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0470114215" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> technology. <br />
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According to the <a href="http://www.nmhu.edu/news.aspx?recid=364">NMHU</a>, an "...outdated and nonfunctional Mortimer Hall..." was demolished to make room for the new student center, complete with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Construction-Maintenance-GreenSource-Mcgraw-Hills-Greensource/dp/007160880X?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">green roof</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=007160880X" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />.<br />
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The building, said NMHU president Jim Fries, "...will be a center of activity for our campus,” Fries said. “It will offer new amenities that will enhance the quality of campus life for our growing student body.”<br />
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The Canadian architectural firm, <a href="http://www.dsai.ca/">Diamond and Schmitt</a>, partnered with the Albuquerque, NM firm, <a href="http://www.studioswarch.com/">Studio Southwest</a>, to design and build this 65,000 square foot, 3-story building.<br />
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It includes, "...a dining facility for the residence halls, a flexible theater space, student service offices for Campus Life and Housing, computer lab, game room, multicultural conference space, ballroom, campus bookstore, campus post office, café, copy center, and an executive boardroom for campus governance groups. A skywalk will connect the student center to the Donnelly Library."<br />
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In addition to a green roof, the building, which hopefully will attain <a href="http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CategoryID=19">LEED Silver</a>, include the use of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Alternative-Energy-Sources-Geothermal-Water/dp/B0016C7DXS?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">geothermal energy</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0016C7DXS" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, high efficiency lighting, rain collection, renewable wood, and high R-value insulation.<br />
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Costs were estimated at $18 million and construction completion is scheduled for 2011.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-73935905495397756702010-07-01T10:43:00.001-04:002010-07-01T10:50:03.521-04:00Sweden's Largest Green Roof<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/14197_MALMO1385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/14197_MALMO1385.jpg" width="315" /></a></div>The city of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Malm%C3%B6-Travel-Guide-ebook/dp/B002HMJYH4?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Malmo</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B002HMJYH4" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, Sweden is building a Fair and Exhibition Centre that will have the country's largest green roof. <a href="http://www.erikgiudice.com/">Erik Giudice Architects</a> created the winning design. The property will be developed by Midroc Property Development.<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=14197">World Architecture News</a>, the building is:<br />
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"...approximately 19,000 sq m comprises exhibition halls, conference rooms, a restaurant, offices, commercial and support spaces."<br />
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The design allows for the addition of an additional 5,000 sq m for mixed use, including housing. Further, the structure will be accessible by a rail link between Malmo and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rick-Steves-Snapshot-Copenhagen-Denmark/dp/1598805916?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Copenhagen</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1598805916" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.greenroof.se/data/archive/files/Storl.-267-x-200/Ill-faerg-mindre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.greenroof.se/data/archive/files/Storl.-267-x-200/Ill-faerg-mindre.jpg" /></a></div>While this project includes a very large green roof, it isn't the only one in Malmo. According to <a href="http://www.greenroof.se/?pid=20">Green Roof.se</a>, the Augustenborg’s Botanical Roof Garden is 9,500 sq m. It covers several buildings and open to the public. I highly recommend reviewing the site via the link I posted above, as it is an aggressive and very interesting project.<br />
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If you are looking for a city to visit with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Green-Roofs-Sustainable-Landscape-Design/dp/0393731685?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">green roofs</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0393731685" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, put Malmo on your list!WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-62892884657542240922010-06-23T17:06:00.000-04:002010-06-23T17:06:06.055-04:00Some Green Roof Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theolinstudio.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/green-roof-systems-book-cover1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.theolinstudio.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/green-roof-systems-book-cover1.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>I have written over 100 posts about green roofs from around the world. However, I have only referenced <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2009/05/classic-parisian-green-roof.html">one book</a>. I would like to recommend a few more to add to your library.<br />
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The first is <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Green-Roof-Systems-Construction-Structure/dp/0471674958?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Green Roof Systems: A Guide to the Planning, Design and Construction of Landscapes over Structure</a></i><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0471674958" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, by Susan Weiler and Katrin Scholz-Barth. If you are looking for a text book approach to green roofs, with fancy charts and diagrams, this is it. Both Weiler and Scholz-Barth are well known in the field. Their experience has made this book standard reading for professionals designing and building green roofs.<br />
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If you love green roofs, but live in the city and have no yard, the book for you is: <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Planting-Green-Roofs-Living-Walls/dp/0881929115?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Planting Green Roofs and Living Walls</a></i><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0881929115" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> by Nigel Dunnett and Noël Kingsbury. While you have to have something of a green thumb, this book walks you through the steps to green up a wall or roof. There is advice on which plants to choose as well as designs. This book is also a help for landscape designers who have never actually done a green roof.<br />
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If you are most interested in the design of green roofs, Steven Peck wrote <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Award-Winning-Green-Designs-Schiffer/dp/0764330225?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Award Winning Green Roof Designs</a></i><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0764330225" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />. Although it is more directed to professionals, it has great photos and descriptions of some incredible green roofs. It is also a good companion to the Weiler Scholz-Barth book above.<br />
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One final book for your consideration is by Caroline Tilston, <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rooftop-Terrace-Gardens-step-step/dp/0470517611?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Rooftop and Terrace Gardens: A step-by-step guide to creating a modern and stylish space</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0470517611" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /></i>. This book is the DIY guide for terraces and the like. It has design suggestions, layouts, as well as detailed instructions. If you live in the city and have roof access, this is the book to liven up your space.<br />
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Is this an exhaustive list of books? Certainly not, but it is a representative sample of materials available. In addition to these books, I would like to give a particular shout out to a green roof expert on Twitter, <a href="http://www.dustygedge.com/">Dusty Gedge</a> (@greenroofsuk). He has great tweets and is worth following.<br />
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Happy reading!!WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-55540217161384115392010-05-06T14:01:00.008-04:002010-06-23T16:23:27.651-04:00Transbay Transit Center Green Roof<a href="http://california.construction.com/images/2010/04/0422_SFtransbaytransit.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://california.construction.com/images/2010/04/0422_SFtransbaytransit.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 230px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 300px;" /></a>San Francisco is already known for its green roofs on <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/09/green-roof-on-bus-shelters.html">bus shelters</a> and the <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/california-academy-of-sciences-25-acre.html">California Academy of Science</a>, now the newly designed Transbay Transit Center will have an enormous <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Green-Roof-Systems-Construction-Structure/dp/0471674958?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">green roof</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0471674958" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> as well.<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=13872">World Architecture News</a>,<br />
<br />
"<span style="font-style: italic;">The glass-and- steel complex, which will serve 12 transit systems... includes new features as well.</span><br />
<span style="font-style: italic;"> One of those features is a 5.4-acre rooftop park with a 100-seat outdoor amphitheater ... cafes and restaurants. The park will have 20 sub-environments including an amphitheater, a playground, public artworks and a lily pond.... A 1,000-foot long fountain shaped like a bus will automatically be activated when a bus passes underneath the park</span>."<br />
The design was approved on 29 April 2010 by the Transbay Joint Powers Authority Board (TJPA).<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=6345628823353431664&postID=5554021716138411539">California Construction</a>, construction will begin in August of 2010 with an estimated cost of "$1.589 billion budget for the first phase of the project, updated to include the cost of building the below ground train box."<br />
<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13872_1_WAN%20Transbay%20Pelli%20Park_Aerial_Day.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13872_1_WAN%20Transbay%20Pelli%20Park_Aerial_Day.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 385px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 300px;" /></a><br />
Also noted from the article are the addition sustainability features of the project.<br />
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"<span style="font-style: italic;">Some of its <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sampler-Alternative-Homes-Approaching-Architecture/dp/B000MVKYU8?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">sustainable </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000MVKYU8" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />features include a geothermal system to assist in substantially reducing energy consumption and a greywater recycling system that will be manage and re-use waste water in the facility. The Transit Center will be entirely naturally ventilated, and, to a large extent, naturally lit</span>."<br />
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As <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Frommers-San-Francisco-2010-Complete/dp/0470487240?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">San Francisco</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0470487240" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> continues to burnish its green credentials, the new Transbay Transit Center will certainly be a worthy replacement for the current iconic structure. Curiously, it reminds me of the <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2010/02/crossrail-canary-wharf-station-green.html">Crossrail Canary Wharf Station</a>. I guess there are only so many ways to build a train station with a green roof.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-36134366815685441932010-04-23T11:08:00.006-04:002010-07-05T20:47:29.859-04:00Oikostegi - Green Roof in Greece<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/60/The_Treasury_-_Syntagma.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/60/The_Treasury_-_Syntagma.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 235px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 314px;" /></a>Greece is known for its ancient culture and well-preserved historic architecture. Did you know they also have green roofs (Oikostegi in Greek)?<br />
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The most recent green roof in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Most-Beautiful-Villages-Greece/dp/0500018340?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Greece</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0500018340" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> is on the Treasury building in Athens. Used as a scientific test bed, much like the green roofs in <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/06/chicago-is-using-green-roofs.html">Chicago</a>, this green roof was shown to reduce cooling cost for the 10 story structure by 8% and heating costs by 4%. While these may not seem very significant numbers, they are only part of the equation.<br />
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Green roofs not only reduce heating and cooling costs, but also reduce storm water runoff, as well as reducing fine particulate air pollution. Additionally, <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2009/06/combining-solar-and-green-roofs.html">photovoltaic cells perform more efficiently</a> on green roofs, due to cooler roof temperatures.<br />
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Greece can benefit from more green roofs due to its hot summer climate, as well urban air pollution. In a land of ancient beauty, green roofs fit right in!WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-35378998926581172602010-03-18T20:52:00.007-04:002010-07-05T20:49:20.790-04:00A Missed Opportunity in Bangalore's NeoTown<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13639_2_bangalore2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13639_2_bangalore2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 204px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 320px;" /></a>With a booming economy and population, Bangalore suffers from high air pollution and a lack of clean drinking water. So, why did <a href="http://www.afworkshop.com/">Andy Fisher Workshop</a> (AFW) design NeoTown with no green roofs? Who knows?<br />
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As reported in <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=13639">World Architecture News</a>, NeoTown is supposed to be, "...a blueprint for future sustainable developments by Patel Realty." According to the photos provided by AFW, NeoTown is a vast expanse of flat roofs, with not a single piece of green to be found.<br />
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I am particularly critical given the that AFW has incorporated gardens before, in India, and for Patel Reality's sister company, Patel Engineering. Specifically, in Mumbai, "...High level link gardens and a rooftop nursery connect the horizontal towers and strengthen the buildings green credentials towards gaining a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Engineering-Guide-LEED-New-Construction-Source/dp/0071489932?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">LEED Gold</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0071489932" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> rating." Hat tip to <a href="http://www.architecture-buzz.com/patel-estate-andy-fisher-workshop/">Architectural Buzz</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/13639_bangalore385.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/13639_bangalore385.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 209px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 325px;" /></a>While it is easy to sit back and criticise, a project of this manageable (50 hectare) size would be a perfect display of green roofs and would greatly further the design's goal of water conservation. Should anybody from AFW be reading this post, green roofs greatly reduce fine particulate matter air pollution, storm water runoff, as well as reducing HVAC costs by approximately 25-30%. Perhaps AFW can go back and add green roofs to this otherwise fine piece of urban design.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-33798281351775585332010-02-17T14:43:00.007-05:002010-07-05T20:50:40.184-04:00Crossrail Canary Wharf Station Green Roof<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13396_2_canary%20wharf%20crossrail3big.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13396_2_canary%20wharf%20crossrail3big.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 423px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 300px;" /></a>To increase its public transportation network, London is in the process of building the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Escalators-Glassed-Underground-Photographic-Setchfield/dp/B0033O2E0O?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Canary Wharf Station</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0033O2E0O" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, complete with a green roof!<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=13396">World Architecture News</a>, the station will "...boost the British economy by at least £20bn, creating and supporting thousands of jobs and adding 10 per cent extra capacity to London's public transport network."<br />
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A project this size hasn't been seen in London for over 50 years, and fortunately building techniques have changed for the better. The building of the station is being carried out with<br />
<br />
"<span style="font-style: italic;">...environmentally responsible construction methods, including the silent piling rigs and coffer dam to partially dewater the dock, minimise disruption to office occupiers, local businesses and residents.</span>”<br />
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While pictures indicate a green roof on the Canary Wharf station, there has been controversy as to whether other stations will have green roofs also.<br />
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<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13396_3_Canary%20wharf%20crossrail1big.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13396_3_Canary%20wharf%20crossrail1big.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 150px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 300px;" /></a>According to <a href="http://www.building.co.uk/story.asp?storycode=3125463"><span style="font-style: italic;">Building</span></a>, in its 20 October 2008 article,<br />
<div style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.cabe.org.uk/about-cabe">Cabe’s</a> design review panel said the practice’s material for the proposed Isle of Dogs station was “largely illustrative,” and complained of a “lack of hardline drawings giving exact information”.</div><div style="font-style: italic;">It said it was not convinced the scheme’s green roof could be achieved, asked for clearer detail on the predicted movement flow through the station, and said more work could be done to open up the park element of the scheme to visitors.</div><div style="font-style: italic;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: italic;"></div>Although I haven't found any further updates on the controversy, London does have at least four additional designs for green roofs. More information can be found <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/search/label/London">here</a>.<br />
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This improvement to the underground system in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rick-Steves-London-2010/dp/1598802917?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">London</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1598802917" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> will provide not only improved quality of life inside the city, but also a better environment through green roofs.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-20449059252267207532010-02-02T17:24:00.010-05:002010-06-23T13:46:33.829-04:00An Enormous Green Roof for Seoul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13287_5_eco%20flow5big.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/13287_5_eco%20flow5big.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Seoul, South Korea plans to improve the Garak Wholesale Market with a 131 acre green roof. To put things in perspective, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Vatican-Michael-Collins/dp/0756636337?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Vatican City</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0756636337" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> is only 110 acres.<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=13287">World Architecture News</a>, local residents complained of the smell from rotting vegetables in the market. A design competition was held to clear the air and improve the area.<br />
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<a href="http://www.samoo.com/">Samoo Architects & Engineers</a> have created a design to not only reduce the smell of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kimchi-Authentic-Korean-Pickled-Cabbage/dp/B0035GXXDM?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">kimchi</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0035GXXDM" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, but also to improve public, retail, and wholesale spaces.<br />
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Several design elements will create efficiencies in the market area. From the article:<br />
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"<span style="font-style: italic;">The two functions will be distinctive and separate with a focus on efficiency within the wholesale quarter, and festivity within the retail quarter... Three pavilions with enhanced daylight and ventilation via Eco-tubes will replace two existing structures to provide a greater footprint for fruit and vegetables. Fisheries and Meat pavilions will be located at the northern edge to allow better access from delivery vehicles and will emit a night glow to give visual presence towards the transport.</span>"<br />
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<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/13287_eco%20flow4main.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/13287_eco%20flow4main.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 284px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 325px;" /></a>The green roof will also provide space for recreational activity, walking, and improved aesthetics. Although the article doesn't mention it, the addition of such a large green roof will also improve the air quality of Seoul. By reducing fine particulate air pollution on such a large scale, the whole city will benefit. Additionally, Seoul's water treatment system will enjoy the benefits of the green roof. More <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Storm-Water-Pollution-Control-Construction/dp/0070173885?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">storm water</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0070173885" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> will be captured and filtered by the green roof, improving the efficiency of the water treatment system.<br />
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As South Korea grows in economic importance, it is exciting to see such a significant, sustainable, project taking shape in the capital city.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-3568842667381264152010-01-16T13:13:00.005-05:002010-01-16T13:20:42.502-05:00Vonage Gives Free Call to Haiti from US<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2010/1/13/1263371859232/A-child-injured-in-an-ear-001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 180px;" src="http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2010/1/13/1263371859232/A-child-injured-in-an-ear-001.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>In the wake of the disaster in Haiti, <a href="http://www.vonage.com/">Vonage</a> is doing its part. From their site:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Vonage is committed to helping during difficult times. In the wake of the recent devastating earthquake in Haiti, Vonage is currently offering free international dialing to Haiti for all U.S. callers. Dial 800-809-2503 and follow the instructions to place a free 10-min call. We encourage you to pass this Vonage toll-free number along to non-Vonage customers who want to call Haiti.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Remember, calls to Haiti are free only if you use this toll-free number to place the call. If you dial from your home phone without using the 800 number, you’ll incur standard long-distance charges. Please note that due to infrastructure limitations in Haiti, you may experience difficulty reaching your party successfully. This free calling service to Haiti may be discontinued at any time.</span><br /><br />Please remember the people of Haiti in your prayers and consider a donation through groups such as the <a href="http://www.redcross.org/">Red Cross</a> and <a href="http://www.crs.org/">Catholic Relief Services</a> (CRS).WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-61455232855735278582010-01-14T22:53:00.005-05:002010-07-05T20:52:01.854-04:00Even Iceland has Green Roofs!<a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/hof.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/hof.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 268px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 400px;" /></a>Even in one of the coldest, inhabited climates on Earth, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Iceland-Lonely-Planet-Country-Guide/dp/1741044553?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Iceland</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1741044553" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, green roofs are part of the landscape.<br />
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<a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2009/02/12/hof-house-by-studio-granada-architects/">Inhabitat.com</a> reports as one of its top 10 green stories of 2009, the Hof House. It was built from salvaged materials from an existing structure.<br />
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Other neat and green features, beside the gorgeous green roof include its <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Solar-House-Passive-Heating-Cooling/dp/1931498121?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">passive solar design</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1931498121" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, geothermal heating, and very thick concrete walls.<br />
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Here are some other pictures to enjoy!<br />
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<a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/hof2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/hof2.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 163px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/casahof-ed03.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/casahof-ed03.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 217px; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 360px;" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-65073249718734880092009-11-09T15:02:00.006-05:002010-07-05T20:53:33.054-04:00Düsseldorf’s Kö-Bogen Green Roofs<a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/Ko-Bogen-4.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/Ko-Bogen-4.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 193px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 300px;" /></a>Germany continues its green roof leadership with the Kö-Bogen development in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Love-Duesseldorf-T-shirt-Large-White/dp/B000IKUSJ0?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Düsseldorf</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000IKUSJ0" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />.<br />
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According to <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2009/11/02/ko-bogen-dusseldorfs-green-roofed-city-center/#">Inhabitat.com</a>, the structure, designed for multi-use the structure is:<br />
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"...<span style="font-style: italic;">adjacent to the </span><a href="http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hofgarten_%28D%C3%BCsseldorf%29" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">Hofgarten</a><span style="font-style: italic;">, Düsseldorf’s central park, the Kö-Bogen will help create a larger and more </span><a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2009/08/31/west-loop-park-an-urban-plan-for-chicago/" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">continuous open green space</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> that runs from the city center out to the park and the Rhine. The green roof will help connect the building with the beautiful historical parks surrounding the downtown area, while reducing rainwater runoff and helping to significantly reduce heating and cooling costs</span>."<br />
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<a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/Ko-Bogen-2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/Ko-Bogen-2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 205px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 310px;" /></a>According to its architect, <a href="http://www.daniel-libeskind.com/news/news-single-view/article/233/duesseldorfs/">Daniel Libeskind</a>, funding has been secured, and construction is set to begin in early 2010. The building is due to open in 2013.<br />
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While a green roof is a significant element of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sustainable-Design-Ecology-Architecture-Planning/dp/0471709530?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">sustainable design</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0471709530" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, Kö-Bogen also includes other green building elements. It will have solar panels, as well as a <a href="http://www.managenergy.net/products/R405.htm">biogas cogenerator</a>.WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-23632218242169524752009-10-27T11:23:00.006-04:002010-07-05T20:54:40.592-04:00Green Roofs for Virginia Tech<a href="http://www.vtmagazine.vt.edu/fall09/images/contents-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.vtmagazine.vt.edu/fall09/images/contents-1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 211px;" /></a>Recognized as a top engineering university, <a href="http://www.vt.edu/">Virginia Tech</a> also has green roofs! <br />
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The most recent issue of <a href="http://www.vtmagazine.vt.edu/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Virginia Tech Magazine</span></a>, has an article about VT alumni who are leaders in sustainability. However, the first graphic is of students planting a green roof between Seitz and Fralin Halls. The picture, seen left, shows the planting of sedum, known to be drought resistant and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Microalgae-Biofuel-Production-Co2-Sequestration/dp/1616681519?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">sequesters CO2</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1616681519" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, while other potential plant life releases CO2 during its life cycle.<br />
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The other green roof on the Blacksburg campus is the <a href="http://www.fralin.vt.edu/content/about-fralin-life-science-institute">Fralin Life Sciences</a> building.<br />
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As a reminder, several colleges and universities have buildings with green roofs. Those include <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/07/george-washington-university-gets-green.html">George Washington University</a>, and the <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/09/not-just-any-green-roof.html">University of Texas</a>, to name two.<br />
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Go Hokies!WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-1120431956709000652009-10-20T16:57:00.004-04:002009-10-20T17:26:16.846-04:00Another Green Roof for London<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12512_1_fletcher%20priest1big.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 424px;" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12512_1_fletcher%20priest1big.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>London is getting another green roof on top of a sustainable building! The 21,370 square meter new office building was designed by UK-based <a href="http://www.fletcherpriest.com/">Fletcher Priest</a> for <a href="http://www.monteverdegroup.com/">Monteverde Group</a>.<br /><br />The building is designed to use a staggered step design, creating two separate green roofs on the structure. Additionally, the upper green roof will be private, while the lower green roof will be public.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10593661" target="_top">Protect your vehicle this winter with WeatherTech<sup>®</sup> DigitalFit<sup>TM</sup> FloorLiners<sup>TM</sup> from MacNeil Automotive.</a><br /><br />Designers chose green roofs to double the public use space as well as to provide additional views of the surrounding buildings.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.worldinteriordesignnetwork.com/news/fletcher_priests_new_office_building_design_in_uk_gets_green_light_091015">World Interior Design Network</a> and <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=12512">World Architectural News</a> ran similar stories commenting upon the structure and its design. WIDN also reports:<br /><br />"<span style="font-style: italic;">The design reuses and adapts the existing below ground structure. This means about 50% of the existing building will be reused. The spare structural capacity and the embodied energy of the existing structure are not wasted, resulting in savings with reduced risks and less disturbance during ground works.</span>"<br /><br />Additiona<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12512_2_fletcher%20priest2big.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 315px; height: 222px;" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12512_2_fletcher%20priest2big.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a>lly, recycled green glass will be used in the windows, reducing energy consumption by 40%.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3429216-10643344" target="_top">Grow indoors</a><br /><br />London is becoming a home of environmentally friendly, sustainable buildings with green roofs. Although projects such as the <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2009/06/londons-battersea-power-station-green.html">Battersea Power Station</a> development have floundered due to the poor economic conditions of 2008-09, London has pioneered green roofed bus shelters (which <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/09/green-roof-on-bus-shelters.html">San Francisco</a> followed), and other green projects.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10468651" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.ftjcfx.com/image-3429216-10468651" width="418" height="60" alt="" border="0"/></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-12617938455022920492009-10-01T11:48:00.008-04:002009-10-01T14:43:15.222-04:00Greening Guangzhou<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12412_4_south%20axis4big.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 269px; height: 335px;" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12412_4_south%20axis4big.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Guangzhou, the third largest city in China, suffers from the worst air pollution in the country. Owing to coal-fired electricity plants, as well as the use of coal and heavy oil in manufacturing, the air pollution is estimated to be the equivalent of smoking 8-10 packs of cigarettes a day.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-3429216-10360165" target="_top">Clearance Sale: The North Face, JanSport, Dakine & more: Save up to 60%!</a><br /><br />Acknowledging this situation as unsustainable, the local government, in conjunction with the national government and local business, have set out to improve not only the environmental conditions, but also the aesthetic conditions for the ten million who live in Guangzhou.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=12412">World Architecture News</a> (WAN) reports:<br /><br />"<span style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.hellermanus.com/">Heller Manus Architects</a> has been awarded the contract to design Guangzhou’s Southern Axis... Heller Manus will now develop their plans for 14.78 sq km of the city incorporating waterfront and transit oriented development with a ferry terminal, central government districts, and a variety of urban land uses.</span>"<br /><br />Heller Manus is based in San Francisco, and promotes designs that suitably blend function with the local culture. WAN notes, "The Heller Manus concept was chosen for its balance of growth with sustainability and preservation, while promoting amenities for better livability."<br /><br /><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10421238" target="_top">On sale at VivaTerra</a>. Save up to 70% on natural home décor, organic gifts and more.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12412_3_south%20axis3big.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 224px;" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12412_3_south%20axis3big.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Green roofs appear to be a significant element of the design, in addition to larger green spaces. In the context of improving Guangzhou, green roofs will help reduce the choking, fine particulate matter air pollution, as well improving storm water runoff. Both clean air and clean water are challenging not just for Guangzhou, but for China as a whole.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3429216-10643344" target="_top">Grow indoors</a><img src="http://www.ftjcfx.com/image-3429216-10643344" border="0" height="1" width="1" /><br /><br />Green roofs will also improve quality of life issues for the residents. Green roofs will provide green space for residents to escape the crowded city life and enjoy the view. Other possibilities include <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2009/05/new-yorks-dragonfly-concept.html">urban agriculture</a> to improve food security.<br /><br />As China continues to grow, its population is becoming more aware of the environmental consequences of rapid industrialization. Projects such as the modernization of Guangzhou, and dream cities such as <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/08/new-green-city-for-china.html">Dongtan</a>, will help prevent catastrophic and irreversible environmental damage and improve the overall health of its citizens.<br /><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10534077" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-3429216-10534077" alt="Need All Day Energy?" border="0" height="60" width="418" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-11773591231242303422009-09-16T15:55:00.003-04:002009-09-16T17:11:34.203-04:00Grow Cities with Green Roofs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.npr.org/assets/news/2009/09/14/houston01.jpg?t=1252960653&s=2"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 225px;" src="http://media.npr.org/assets/news/2009/09/14/houston01.jpg?t=1252960653&s=2" alt="" border="0" /></a>Growing cities bring more air pollution. Cities such as Houston, Texas are using green roofs to combat air pollution and manage storm water runoff.<br /><br />A recent <a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112828563&sc=fb&cc=fp">NPR piece</a> about growing and sprawling cities, states greater Houston's population at about 6 million people (podcast <a href="javascript:NPR.Player.openPlayer(112828563,%20112872524,%20null,%20NPR.Player.Action.PLAY_NOW,%20NPR.Player.Type.STORY,%20'0')">here</a>). With its hot and humid climate, as well as oil refineries, air pollution is a very serious issue. Additionally, as Houston grows, storm water runoff and its management also becomes a more significant issue, as much of the runoff ends up in the Gulf of Mexico.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10660962" target="_top">7-day FREE trial of 3 Bureau Credit Monitoring! Plus Credit Report & Score - $0 </a><br /><br />The <a href="http://houston.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2007/06/11/focus3.html">Houston Business Journal</a> reported in 2007 people were thinking about and building green roofs. The green roof is 12% more efficient than a baseline building, and helps to reduce the urban heat island effect.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3429216-10640194" target="_top">WeatherTech<sup>®</sup> All-Weather Floor Mats are designed to keep your vehicle floors clean and clear of rain, snow, mud and debris.</a><br /><br />From the article:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">According to Wooten (Kirksey Associate Russell Wooten, project manager), green roofs address two green building issues that are of special concern in Houston: </span> <ul style="font-style: italic;"><li> The heat island effect. Green roofs reduce what is known as the heat island effect: Due to large areas of hot paved surfaces in urban areas, it's often up to 10 degrees hotter in the city than in the surrounding countryside. </li><li> Stormwater. The plant materials on green roofs absorb a large amount of stormwater. </li></ul> <p style="font-style: italic;"> ...green roofs increase the roof's life span, filter pollutants and carbon dioxide out of the air and filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater. </p>Another successful green roof project in Houston is the University of Houston Architecture School. Geoffrey Brune of the Architecture School states in a piece from <a href="http://abclocal.go.com/wjrt/story?section=outdoors&id=5697169">ABC12.com</a>:<br /><br />"<span style="font-style: italic;">If all the buildings in Houston had green roofs then the temperature would be very different. … I think it would be significantly noticeable … by several degrees.</span>"<br /><br /><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10676132" target="_top">Elite Jobs for elite professionals! Let Doostang help accelerate your career. www.doostang.com</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.uh.edu/images/photos/spiffs/recycled-goods.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 184px;" src="http://www.uh.edu/images/photos/spiffs/recycled-goods.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Additionally, the U/H green roof is on a building with a sloped roof, not typically seen with green roofs. The building is proving that green roofs are feasible on not just for larger structures with sloped roofs, but also for residential structures, which typically do have sloped roofs.<br /><br />As Houston's population continues to grow, the application of green roofs to new buildings will help bring cleaner air to its new residents.<br /><a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3429216-10566377" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-3429216-10566377" alt="" width="418" border="0" height="60" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-69597753057955209962009-08-31T09:39:00.005-04:002009-08-31T10:26:49.965-04:00Venlo, NL Green Roof<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/12193_venlo1main.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 325px; height: 319px;" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/project/uploaded_files/12193_venlo1main.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Venlo, the Netherlands, is joining the sustainability movement with its new municipal building.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=12193">World Architecture News</a> reports the building, designed by Hans Goverde of <a href="http://www.kraaijvanger.urbis.nl/">Kraaijvanger • Urbis</a>, will have two terraced green houses. The green houses will act like green roofs in that they will provide natural insulation and use storm water runoff.<br /><br />The building will be the centerpiece of a larger development of sustainable buildings based on the "<a href="http://www.mcdonough.com/cradle_to_cradle.htm">Cradle to Cradle</a>" principles of William McDonough & Michael Braungart.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10622129" target="_top">Free Shipping on any purchase over $25</a><br /><br />"Cradle to Cradle" is a set of principles that, "...an industrial system that "takes, makes and wastes" can become a creator of goods and services that generate ecological, social and economic value." Venlo demonstrates these principles by collecting storm water runoff for the green house, and using the underground parking garage to help maintain building temperatures.<br /><br />inhabitliving.com - <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10533976" target="_top">On SALE</a><br /><br />Another example of "Cradle to Cradle" is the green roof on Ford's Rouge River plant in Dearborn, Michigan. The 10 acre green roof on the main assembly plant, in combination with porous pavement and swales, greatly reduced the storm water runoff that was regularly polluting the Rouge River, and save Ford over $35 million.<br /><br />DriveTime - The used car dealership for those with bad credit. <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10465197" target="_top">Apply online.</a><br /><br />As the economics of sustainability are borne out, and buildings such as Venlo's municipal building are constructed, we will begin to see more green roofs, cleaner air for cities, and an overall improvement of environmental conditions.<br /><a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3429216-10566377" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.tqlkg.com/image-3429216-10566377" width="418" height="60" alt="" border="0"/></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-35486983137005836182009-08-24T11:12:00.006-04:002011-01-21T10:52:18.042-05:00Germany's ECO CITY<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12190_2_ecocity2big.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12190_2_ecocity2big.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 182px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 325px;" /></a>Germany, already a leader in green roofs, is now working on its own <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Eco2-Cities-Ecological-Economic/dp/082138046X?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">ECO CITY</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=082138046X" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />. Full of green roofs, wind turbines, and other sustainable technologies, ECO CITY hopes to revive the historic Hamburg-Harburg Harbor.<br />
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Hamburg-Harburg Harbor, situated on the North Sea, has been a hub of trade and industrial activity since the 19th century. Although the original factories have since left, the historic area still has many classic buildings that ECO CITY wishes to retain and reuse in the renovated and sustainable city.<br />
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Site reclamation and renovations are difficult enough, however, ECO CITY takes this project to the next level. <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2009/08/19/eco-city-seeking-highest-rating-from-the-three-major-major-green-rating-systems/">Inhabitat.com</a> and <a href="http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=12190">World Architecture News</a> both report one of ECO CITY's goals is to achieve certification from the three leading "green" building bodies (from WAN):<br />
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"...<span style="font-style: italic;">USGBC’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Program, the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM), and the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB)’s Program. Currently, ECO CITY is seeking the highest level of environmental certification from all three programs.</span>"<br />
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To achieve top marks from each of these bodies, buildings must produce <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Renewable-Energy-Sustainable-Future-Second/dp/0199261784?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">renewable energy</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0199261784" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, be built with recycled materials, and use the renewable energy to sustain the project, e.g., solar lights, passive cooling, etc.<br />
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<a href="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12190_4_ecocity4big.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12190_4_ecocity4big.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 182px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 325px;" /></a>Green roofs are a key element of the project, not only to reduce storm water runoff, but also to improve the quality of life of the workers in the area. <a href="http://www.arup.com/">ARUP</a>, the designers of <a href="http://cleanerairforcities.blogspot.com/2008/08/new-green-city-for-china.html">Dongtan</a>, the green city in China, is one of the key developers of ECO CITY. Their experience with green building, and Dongtan in particular, will help make ECO CITY a success.<br />
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<img alt="Inhabit Pillows - Modern Design!" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.ftjcfx.com/image-3429216-10505557" width="418" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-16048218757926066792009-08-14T17:04:00.007-04:002009-08-14T17:25:56.718-04:00US Postal Service Green Roof<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/nycpostoffice_greenroof-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 325px; height: 213px;" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/nycpostoffice_greenroof-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The US Postal Service has finished a 2.5 acre green roof in New York City. The green roof, on top of the Morgan, an historic building in mid-town, should last 50 years.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2009/07/27/us-postal-service-plants-biggest-green-roof-in-nation/">Inhabitat.com</a> posted the story in its regular email, though the <a href="http://www.usps.com/">USPS</a> posted a <a href="http://www.usps.com/communications/newsroom/2009/pr09_063.htm">press release</a> on 22 July 2009. <a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3429216-10622129" target="_top">Free Shipping on any purchase over $25</a><br /><br />According to the press release,<br /><br />“<span style="font-style: italic;">The Morgan green roof is the largest in New York and one of the largest in the country,” said Sam Pulcrano, vice president, Sustainability. “Not only does it provide employees with a beautiful, serene outdoor environment, the green roof will help us meet our goal to reduce energy usage 30 percent by 2015.</span>”<br /><br /><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10518053" target="_top">Guard against ID Theft with 15 Points of Protection from TrustedID, including our $1,000,000 Warranty. Click Here!</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/nycpostoffice_greenroof-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 228px; height: 305px;" src="http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/nycpostoffice_greenroof-2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The USPS wisely noted the value of green roofs, namely, reduced energy usage, as well as storm water runoff management. Additionally, green roofs reduce fine particulate matter air pollution. Of course, they are beautiful also! <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10566455" target="_top">Chuck Norris wants YOU to get into shape!</a> - Total Gym® Official Store. Try Total Gym® for 30 Days for only $1 - FREE Shipping.<br /><br />As a US taxpayer, I am glad to see my money being spent in such a responsible way! Let's hope we see more green roofs, not just in New York City, but also in places such as Shanghai, Bangalore, and more in Mexico City.<br /><a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10421193" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-3429216-10421193" alt="VivaTerra - Eco Living With Style" border="0" height="60" width="418" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-3196141274764472052009-08-06T13:56:00.006-04:002010-07-21T16:31:49.504-04:00Green Roofs Do Require Maintenance<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rI1KEXfUmkQ/R-KQqt9g2kI/AAAAAAAAADU/XRiudyjk-ns/s1600/goatsonroof.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rI1KEXfUmkQ/R-KQqt9g2kI/AAAAAAAAADU/XRiudyjk-ns/s1600/goatsonroof.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 199px; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; width: 299px;" /></a>While <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Planting-Green-Roofs-Living-Walls/dp/0881929115?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">green roofs</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0881929115" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> are low maintenance, they do require some maintenance in the first two years, though considerably less in the out years.<br />
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Many people ask, how do you cut the grass on green roofs? Despite the humorous goat picture, you don't have to, rather maintenance is centered around getting the green roof plants established.<br />
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Generally speaking, there are two types of green roofs, intensive and extensive. Intensive roofs have very large shrubs or trees, while extensive roofs generally have grasses and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Succulent-Container-Gardens-Eye-Catching-Easy-Care/dp/088192959X?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">succulents</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=088192959X" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />. Since trees and other larger shrubs have deeper root systems and weigh more, they are subject to more maintenance, while extensive roofs (succulents and grasses) require less.<br />
<a href="http://www.lid-stormwater.net/greenroofs_maintain.htm"><br />
Urban Design Tools</a> discusses the maintenance topic thoroughly and is a significant source for this post, minus the goats. The establishment period requires watering, fertilizing, weeding, checking for proper drainage, and checking for leaks. Once a roof is established, watering is only required in extreme drought conditions.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ensc.tcu.edu/greenroof/GreenRoofIntensive.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.ensc.tcu.edu/greenroof/GreenRoofIntensive.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 225px; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; width: 300px;" /></a>Proper drainage is critical. If the drainage is insufficient, the plants can drown or rot, and the roof could possibly leak. Inspecting for leaks is also critical, especially around the following areas, from UDT:<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">Areas where occasional inspection for leaks is advisable include possible such as abutting vertical walls, roof vent pipes, outlets, air conditioning units, perimeter areas, etc.</span><br />
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Eventually, the supporting roof will have to be replaced, though, with proper design, installation, and maintenance, should last at least as long as a traditional roof. Considering the energy savings green roofs bring, a green roof is comparably as expensive as a traditional roof.<br />
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Green roofs do require maintenance. Make sure during the establishment phase, that they are properly watered, weeded, and fertilized. Also make sure to inspect drainage and for leaks. While <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Goats-Small-scale-Herding-Pleasure-Profit/dp/193199367X?ie=UTF8&tag=cleairthrgrer-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">goats</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cleairthrgrer-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=193199367X" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> aren't necessary, they do make a pleasant aesthetic addition!<br />
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<img alt="Easy cars loans from DriveTime " border="0" height="60" src="http://www.tqlkg.com/image-3429216-10470769" width="418" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-61141288109053085372009-07-30T11:59:00.007-04:002009-07-30T12:52:30.201-04:00Green Roof Supplier, LiveRoof<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/1/1/7/ar124871673771129.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 187px;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/2/1/1/7/ar124871673771129.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>You can't have a green roof without the, well, green. LiveRoof is a supplier of the plant life that goes on green roofs.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.liveroof.com/">LiveRoof</a> selects plants to suit the regions for which they will go, and then uses a network of regional growers to provide the appropriate plants. <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10363748" target="_top">Mountain House Freeze-Dried Food</a><br /><br />According to <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1169513/lancaster-pa-green-roofs-a-visit-with-paul-cook-of-liveroof">Jeff Geoghan's Lancaster PA real estate blog</a>,<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The plants are selected based on their water retention, heat resistance, growth height and other factors. Plants used fall into the "sedum" category. Paul (Cook) explained how the plants take approximately 3 months to fully grow once the order for a roof system has been placed.</span><br /><br />Sedum are plants with very shallow roots and part of a group of plants known as succulents. Succulents will consume and hold large amounts of rain water, and the green roof substrate will retain much of what is left over, reducing storm water runoff. <a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3429216-10679607" target="_top">$10 Off All Online Flower Orders</a>. Over 75,000 florists world-wide offering same-day flower delivery at a discount.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/2/6/4/ar124871823546293.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 373px;" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/2/6/4/ar124871823546293.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Another nice thing about LiveRoof is that home owners can install the roof themselves. LiveRoof provides a video to help. I would suggest that you find out how much weight your roof can sustain per square foot and if any additional bracing is required to install the green roof. <a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10622129" target="_top">Free Shipping on any purchase over $25</a><br /><br />LiveRoof, via ActiveRain says, "<span style="font-style: italic;">The system itself runs about </span><strong style="font-style: italic;">$12 per square foot on average for a residential installation</strong><span style="font-style: italic;">. So, if you have a 20x20 roof its 400 square feet or $4,800.</span>" While this is a readily accessible solution for home owners, make sure the roof is properly prepared with a water barrier, etc <span style="font-style: italic;">before</span> you purchase and install the system.<br /><br />Thanks to my <a href="http://www.twitter.com/">twitter</a> friend <a href="http://twitter.com/LancasterHomes">@lancasterhomes</a> for the story.<br /><a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-3429216-10660994" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.ftjcfx.com/image-3429216-10660994" alt="468x60 - What’s Your Credit Score?" border="0" height="60" width="418" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6345628823353431664.post-13632855657340317642009-07-13T10:27:00.004-04:002009-07-13T11:37:49.960-04:00Ireland's Green Roofs Videos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://traumwerk.stanford.edu:3455/michaelshanks/admin/image.html?imageid=1482224"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 130px;" src="http://traumwerk.stanford.edu:3455/michaelshanks/admin/image.html?imageid=1482224" alt="" border="0" /></a>Ireland is one of the world's greenest countries, at least in terms of flora and fauna. However, Ireland is also the home of ancient and modern green roofs.<br /><br />Long before China, Chicago, or New York put green roofs on buildings, the Irish had done it in Newgrange. Newgrange, is home of a megalithic burial site, a mound that covers about an acre, covered with a green roof. The site was thought to be built around 32oo BC, and is typical of other mound sites throughout the world, all of which have green roofs. <a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3429216-10622129" target="_top">Free Shipping on any purchase over $25</a><br /><br />What has Newgrange to do with modern green roofs in Ireland? Everything! Historically, Ireland's agrarian culture and temperate climate has created in its populace a love of the land and local environment. It should come as no surprise then, that "...<a class="external" target="_blank" href="http://www.milessampson.com/">Miles Sampson</a>, a County Clare-based architect specializing in <a class="external" target="_blank" href="http://www.milessampson.com/sustainability.html">sustainable homes</a>," has created a very green home in Ireland, with a series of green roofs. <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3429216-10412741" target="_top">Click here for the lowest available Air France fares.</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.mnn.com/sites/default/files/kilcornan-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 310px; height: 175px;" src="http://www.mnn.com/sites/default/files/kilcornan-1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>According to Matt Hickman at <a href="http://www.mnn.com/the-home/building-renovating/blogs/a-true-gaelic-green-roof">Mother Nature Network</a>,<br /><br />"<span style="font-style: italic;">The building of one of his low-energy homes, a “</span><a style="font-style: italic;" class="external" target="_blank" href="http://www.milessampson.com/geomorphologicalhouse.html">Geomorphological House</a><span style="font-style: italic;">,” in the rural west of Ireland has been captured on</span><a style="font-style: italic;" class="external" target="_blank" href="http://www.youtube.com/user/ecologicalarchitect"> film</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> and even if you aren’t intrigued by the home’s various green features (grass sod roof, vacuum tube solar panels, recycled newspaper insulation, heat recovery ventilation system, etc.).</span>"<br /><br />To highlight his design, videos were made describing their features and construction. They are quite enjoyable! Please enjoy the videos of this great house with green roofs in Ireland!<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/5VMvopaVlGs&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/5VMvopaVlGs&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vG6kVj-waW4&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vG6kVj-waW4&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" height="344" width="425"></embed></object><br /><a href="http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-3429216-10533627" target="_top"><br /><img src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-3429216-10533627" alt="Easy car loans from DriveTime" border="0" height="60" width="418" /></a>WRGIIhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17036062696749142603noreply@blogger.com0