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Fundamentals of green roofs: A comprehensive guide to theory and practice
... Nevertheless, with a focus on the proliferation of low-energy buildings, it is also essential to recognize the significant role of embodied energy [45,50]. This study provides a state-of-the-art review of green roofs [51][52][53] as a sustainable design solution for the development of greener built environments. ...
Green roofs have been proposed for sustainable buildings in many countries with different climatic conditions.
A state-of-the-art review of green roofs emphasizing current implementations, technologies, and
benefits is presented in this paper. Technical and construction aspects of green roofs are used to classify
different systems. Environmental benefits are then discussed mainly by examining measured performances.
By reviewing the benefits related to the reduction of building energy consumption, mitigation
of urban heat island effect, improvement of air pollution, water management, increase of sound insulation,
and ecological preservation, this paper shows how green roofs may contribute to more sustainable
buildings and cities. However, an efficient integration of green roofs needs to take into account both the
specific climatic conditions and the characteristics of the buildings. Economic considerations related to
the life-cycle cost of green roofs are presented together with policies promoting green roofs worldwide.
Findings indicate the undeniable environmental benefits of green roofs and their economic feasibility.
Likewise, new policies for promoting green roofs show the necessity for incentivizing programs. Future
research lines are recommended and the necessity of cross-disciplinary studies is stressed.