Green Roofs Living Walls Green

Green Roofs Living Walls

Green Roofs and Living Walls

Societal Attitudes

Taking a look at the definition of Environmentalism to open this discussion will support the title by explaining a but of what "Green Roofs and Living Walls "is not. The term is described as "persons or groups that have come together to advocate the sustainability of natural resources along with the essential stewardship environments by encouraging changes of public policies and individualistic behaviors" (Webecoist, 2008).

Furthermore, it is "recognizing that our humanity is not an enemy of ecosystems" but a partner. Environmentalism is a movement that has its roots in health, human rights, and ecology (Webecoist, 2008). This is an adequate opening to support the pattern of interest in Green living presented by the WebEcoist (2008). The source WebEcoist came about while seeking an understanding of the subject of environmentalism which is necessary in order to appreciate a practical look at modern day roofing and wall construction. Illuminating how natural roofing can improve the health of individuals, while providing an ecosystem whereby anyone can contribute to the longevity through their habitat.

With issues such as global warming and pollution looming in the headlines, it is wise to consider how to change societal attitudes toward environmentalism. Not by demanding everyone through out their modern day possessions or behaviors, but by introducing new ways to include Green friendly alternatives. When exploring causes of global warming or pollution, authors present a viable argument in re-evaluating building materials used in the many high rise buildings in the big cities such as New York and Chicago, in Chicago Green Roofs (Artic.edu, 2011). Incorporating a partnership between natural living and big city dwelling is to introduce "Green Roofs and Living Wall" concepts as a 'way of life' as mentioned in Enviroscapes Northwest (2009).

History and Culture

Now that an introduction has been given of what Environmentalism is, it's simpler to translate why and the history behind the movement. Amazingly, the movement started in the early 19th century by American authors such as Henry David Thoreau and even President's such as Teddy Roosevelt (Webecoist, 2008). Henry David Thoreau was one of many transcendentalists that showed and wrote about an appreciation of nature in his book "Maine Woods" (Webecoist, 2011). Teddy Roosevelt first approved the setting apart of lands such as Yosemite and establishment of national parks in 1916 (Webecoist, 2008). Ancient civilizations have incorporated Green living as early as the times of Babylon as mentioned by Chicago Green Roofs where the 'Hanging Gardens of Babylon' incorporated natural roofing and gardens (2011).

What are "Green Roofs"

In describing 'Green Roofs' specifically, advocate building roofs of sod and natural materials that grow green plants, even gardens to conserve heat with insulation during winter. In the same manner saving energy and costs associated with cooling homes, through natural means in warmer seasons and climates according to Chicago Green Roofs (2011). In fact this article also provides evidence from actual building projects by architects such as Ricardo Bofill and Gunnar Birkerts (Chicago Green Roofs, 2011). Taking the movement of Environmentalism mentioned at the beginning a step further than history previously to the incorporating it into the daily lives of humanity. Consider the materials used that are biodegradable, recyclable, and can even provide food when planting involves vegetables and herbs. The types of techniques 'extensive' require a soil base of sand, gravel, and brick that can provide an eco-friendly environment for growing rooftop plants. The second technique called intensive allows for deeper planting for trees and larger plants that could be used for larger areas of roofing for a larger ecosystem Chicago Green Roofs (2011).

Changing the culture to accept such ideas will take time and constant advocacy. However incentives such as cleaner air, less pollution in areas where there is little greenery, natural beauty, and a healthy food source are attractive blogs Kevin Songer on 'Living Green Roofs (2010).

What are "Living Walls"

Living Walls are similar to Green Roofs providing benefits of insulation, natural beauty, longevity, and recycling advantages according to ELT Living Walls an article that avidly supports environmentally friendly living (2010). Plants can also be grown on the walls of homes. Many countries have already adopted this eco-friendly solution in countries such as Tanzania, and Nova Scotia, for example, where there are extremely hot and cold temperatures comments Chicago Green Roofs (2011). Combining 'Green Roofs' with 'Living Walls', a YouTube video demonstration presentation by showing how panels can be added to the home (YouTube, 2011).

Economic Advantages

So far the case for "Green Roofs and Living Walls" has incorporated the societal, historical, and cultural advantages of considering this avenue for taking a practical approach to implementing Environmentalism into present and future living arrangements. Hints of the economic advantages have been presented and further analysis of the costs and long-term benefits of implementing these natural eco-systems show tremendous promise. Consider the Costing Table provided by Living Green Roofs (2011). The table shows that roofs lasts up to 30 years longer than traditional roofs that offer none of the environmental benefits discussed so far. Those benefits include cleaner air, one of the major problems in traditionally built homes today are poor insulation, dusts, germs, and dangerous chemically-based sediments that cause respiratory illnesses from inhaling toxins (Songer, 2010). Another benefit was the ability to grow food, with the rising costs of meals, it can be very economical to grow plants such as tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs to supplement food costs.

The initial outlay for implementing "Green Roofs" and/or "Living Walls" is about 25% more than traditional methods, but at what costs to health and the environment (Songer, 2010). The additional costs required over time will increase the longevity of the home, which reduces roof repairs. It can also improve the quality of life due to fewer possible illnesses due to toxic materials being present in the roof or walls of the home. More studies on successful projects in other countries like Tanzania, Nova Scotia and others will more than likely show greater advantages, not yet seen or understood.