Introduction to Green Roofs Research

If you know of or have any research on green roofs in the UK and would like it published please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Currently there is little material available on research that has been undertaken in the UK, and directly pertinent to conditions in this country, although research material from elsewhere, especially northern Europe, is particularly useful in respect of water run-off. However, research has been undertaken on the general performance and environmental benefits of green roofs at Nottingham Trent University, see www.greenroofs.co.uk.

In London research is being undertaken primarily focussed on biodiversity related issues of green roofs and a number of smaller projects on planning and barriers. This follows a review by English Nature, to identify what research had been undertaken in respect of green roofs and biodiversity (none in the UK until 2001), and to assess their potential.

There are a large number of USA research documents available from Green Roofs for Healthy Cities. They also have a researchers group, which researchers and academics can join. See: www.greenroofs.ca

Furthermore University of Sheffield and Herriot Watt University are seeking funding for long-term studies of storm water amelioration and green roofs. Livingroofs.org is supporting both institutions in their bid to attract funding.

Below are links to pages containing the current written or published research in the UK. There are a number of studies being undertaken at the present. Currently three studies on barriers to green roofs and a studying on green roofs and planning gain are underway. These will be published when available. If you are aware of any other research being undertaken that directly relates to green roofs, green walls or other vegetative features for buildings, we would like to hear from you.