Green roofs can lower your energy bill

By Else Demeulenaere

For Pacific Daily News

Urbanization has led to an increase of concrete spaces in Guam’s denser populated areas. These gray surfaces do not only look dull; they also promote storm water runoff into our oceans because concrete does not allow excess water to soak into the ground. Concrete spaces also heat up our neighborhoods and tourist centers. Concrete roofs require a lot of maintenance and need to be water blasted to avoid algae growth. 

Imagine if we could green these surfaces with native plants and vegetables while preventing heat and algal buildup? It is possible! Researchers at the University of Guam found sustainable solutions in green roof infrastructure.

Read the full article in the Pacific Daily News (May 15, 2021).

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Else Demeulenaere is the associate director for UOG’s Center for Island Sustainability. She writes a Saturday column in the Pacific Daily News appearing in the Lifestyle section. She may be reached at (671) 735-2918 or else@uog.edu.