Brooklyn Lawmaker Wants More Green Roofs on City Schools – Living Architecture Monitor magazine

Sourced from Brooklyn Eagle

A southern Brooklyn councilmember wants more city schools to get green roofs.

Councilmember Mark Treyger, a former educator and the current chair of the councils Committee on Education, will introduce legislation Thursday calling on Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza to study the feasibility of installing a green roof on at least two schools in each of the citys 32 school districts.

According to the nonprofit Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, a green roof system is an extension of an existing roof that involves high-quality waterproofing, a drainage system and cloth filter, a lightweight growing medium and plants at least.

Green roofs, also referred to as living or eco roofs, have been known to last longer than conventional roofs, cut energy costs, absorb rain water and create peaceful retreats. They also can lead to the production of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Treyger, who represents the areas of Bensonhurst, Coney Island, Gravesend and Sea Gate, called the initiative a big deal for districts like his.

As someone who represents one of the hardest hit areas after Superstorm Sandy, I believe we have an obligation to bolster resiliency on many fronts, he told theBrooklyn EagleWednesday, ahead of his bills introduction. But on the other hand, Coney Island is also a food desert, meaning we dont have great access to fresh, healthy, affordable food. Imagine being able to turn a school project into fresh food for local residents.

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Brooklyn Lawmaker Wants More Green Roofs on City Schools - Living Architecture Monitor magazine