A green roof is a concrete roof turned ‘green’ by using its surface to plant a variety of crops, trees and flowers. The concept of turning roofs green is becoming increasingly popular all around the world. Due to the rise of global temperatures and the destruction of natural habitats, green roofs help combat adverse effects of urbanization.

Green roofs not only help the environment, but also help society by combating air pollution and retaining rainwater.  Let’s not forget, green roofs provide families with healthy and fresh produce!

HOW IT WORKS

In 2013 arcenciel inaugurated its first green roof, in its headquarters in Jisr el Bacha. Using PCV pipes as a main structure and drip irrigation system, the fully functional system can hold up to 436 crops with a 40 cm gap between each plants.  On the arcenciel rooftop it is possible able to harvest up to 500 kg of tomatoes a year, which would provide a good source of income.

However, arcenciel is currently working on optimizing the roof garden in order to replicate it on other buildings. Before doing so, it is testing for the most optimal crops that grow on roofs, based on the specificities of each region.

The system should be easy to implement and should require minimal maintenance.  So far different experiments have been made with a variety of crops: vegetables (green beans, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber), weeds (Roca, oregano, mint), root vegetables (onions, green onions, and radish), and leafy vegetables (lettuce, lolo rosso, lolo Verdi, cabbage).

AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL 

The green roof is also used as a tool to educate youths on sustainable agriculture, good agricultural practices (GAP), and basic agriculture concepts. By thoroughly understanding sustainable agriculture, students can replicate this easy model in their own spaces by turning their thumbs green.

For more information: 01495561 ext. 1417