Commercial Green Roof Systems in New Orleans

Abstract

Green roofs have been greatly underappreciated for their ability to provide environmental and economic benefits to a building. This method of green infrastructure utilizes unused roof space to prevent climate risks and provide savings toward water costs. Climate change has caused many environmental, social, and constructional issues that have hindered the integrity of the city of New Orleans. The city has been looking for alternative routes to prevent these negative effects. The research presented focuses on how green roofs can benefit cities with high storm exposure, such as New Orleans. These benefits were measured through a proposed green roof located atop the Columns Hotel in New Orleans, LA. This proposed green roof was created using information gained from the Hanging Gardens LLC and their project located at the Sewerage and Water Board’s administration building. Although this method of green infrastructure is not the most cost-efficient, it has proven to be a great implementation for flood prevention. By slowing the water flow during storms, pressure can be taken off the already stressed pipes and pumps. Land subsidence will also decrease with green roofs as stormwater will now have time to infiltrate through the clay-like soil. Finally, adding a green roof may bring additional customers to the hotel.