What is a Green Roof?

A green rooftop (or a green roof) uses living plant material as part of a roofing system. Green roofs generally include the following components:

  • A waterproof membrane
  • A root barrier
  • Thermal insulation
  • A drainage system
  • A filter layer
  • Growing medium
  • Living plant material

Plaza areas with minimal green space or planter boxes, while they provide benefits to urban areas, are not considered green rooftops.