Mimicking natural ecosystems to improve green roof performance

Grant number: LP130100731 | Funding period: 2014 - 2018

Completed

Abstract

This project will transform the Australian green roof industry by specifying plants and substrates according to ecological theory. New substrates will create markets for waste products, and diverse and resilient plant mixes will optimise nutrient and water use. Both will reduce urban energy use and stormwater runoff adapting Australian cities to climate change.

Related publications (5)

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Biochar made from low density wood has greater plant available water than biochar made from high density wood

Joerg Werdin, Tim D Fletcher, John P Rayner, Nicholas SG Williams, Claire Farrell

2020-02-25

Soil water limitations often restrict plant growth in unirrigated agricultural, forestry and urban systems. Biochar amendment to s..

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Green roof storage capacity can be more important than evapotranspiration for retention performance

Zheng Zhang, Christopher Szota, Tim D Fletcher, Nicholas SG Williams, Claire Farrell

2019-02-15

Green roofs can significantly reduce stormwater runoff volumes. Plant selection is crucial to retention performance, as it is infl..

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Influence of plant composition and water use strategies on green roof stormwater retention

Zheng Zhang, Christopher Szota, Tim D Fletcher, Nicholas SG Williams, Joerg Werdin, Claire Farrell

2018-06-01

Green roofs are increasingly being considered a promising engineered ecosystem for reducing stormwater runoff. Plants are a critic..

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Substrate depth, vegetation and irrigation affect green roof thermal performance in a Mediterranean type climate

A Pianella, L AYE, Z Chen, NSG Williams

2017-08-16

Green roofs are consistently being used to reduce some of the negative environmental impacts of cities. The increasing interest in..

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Steady-state and transient thermal measurements of green roofsubstrates

A Pianella, RE Clarke, NSG Williams, Z Chen, L AYE

2016-09-15

There has been growing interest in using extensive green roofs for commercial and residential buildings in urban areas. Green roof..