Nov. 15, 2007

Columbia Rooftops Going Green
Special from The Record

In a city where most roofs are barren, tar-topped eyesores, two Columbia University-owned buildings now feature rooftop vegetation that pleases the eye and provides a step forward fulfilling the University’s commitment to lower its carbon emissions.

In early November, the Facilities Department and the Earth Institute’s Center for Climate Systems Research (CCSR) installed “green roofs” at 423 W. 118th St. (above) and 635 W. 115th St., where the Office of Environmental Stewardship is located.

Research has shown that green roofs reduce the “heat island” effect created by heat-absorbing asphalt and concrete, lowering energy consumption.

CCSR will monitor the health and growth of the vegetation and document the green roof’s impact on temperature and rainwater runoff.

– Photograph by Eileen Barroso.