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Summary of Transcript:
The Lincoln Park Zoo has over 35,000 square feet of green roofs, which are important for collecting rainwater and insulating buildings, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. The Horticulture staff maintains the green tops to prevent weed growth, which can damage the roof membranes. While not everyone may be able to install green roofs in their homes, it is hoped that the example set by the zoo will inspire interest in sustainability and finding other ways to develop it at home.
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Summary of Description:
Lincoln Park Zoo has the best-hidden gem rooftops in the form of green roofs. These roofs offer several benefits, such as air purification, rainwater collection, and energy conservation, making them an environmentally friendly option.
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Green Roofs: The Best Hidden Gem Rooftops at Lincoln Park Zoo
Have you ever thought of a rooftop as much more than just an architectural finishing touch? Green roofs are becoming increasingly sought-after features in urban landscapes and are collectively impacting the environment. Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is home to some of the best-hidden gems on green rooftops. This article will explore how green roofs work and how they’re making a difference at Lincoln Park Zoo.
The Environmental Benefits of Green Roofs
Green roofs are also known as living roofs because of the vegetation and greenery that adorn them. But did you know these living roofs also serve an important environmental purpose? Here are some of the key benefits of green roofs:
Purifying the air
Air pollution is a major issue in cities worldwide, and taking serious steps to combat it is important. Green roofs reduce air pollution by filtering out harmful chemicals and particles from the air.
Collecting rainwater
Runoff from traditional roofs often leads to flooding and stormwater pollution. On the other hand, green roofs absorb and store rainwater, helping prevent these issues.
Insulating buildings
Green roofs help regulate indoor temperatures by acting as natural insulators, which in turn helps reduce energy usage and costs!
How Lincoln Park Zoo’s Green Roofs Make a Difference
Lincoln Park Zoo has incorporated green roofs into multiple buildings throughout its campus, including the Regenstein Macaque Forest and Searle Visitor Center. Here’s how these green roofs are making a difference:
Regenstein Macaque Forest
This exhibit is home to snow monkeys and Japanese macaques, and the green roof atop their habitat helps blend their outdoor environment with the surrounding nature. The top is also designed to collect rainwater which is then directed towards the exhibit’s waterfall, further enhancing the monkeys’ naturalistic setting.
Searle Visitor Center
The green roof atop the entrance to the Searle Visitor Center serves as a teaching tool for visitors. The vegetative techniques help improve air quality, reduce urban heat island effects, and lessen stormwater runoff by retaining water. The top provides a chance to engage with sustainability actively, and the designs were created for both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Creating a Culture of Environmental Stewardship
Lincoln Park Zoo is known for its commitment to protecting animals and their habitats, but it’s clear that its efforts extend far beyond the gates of the zoo grounds. By incorporating green roofs into multiple buildings throughout their campus, they’re taking a proactive approach to sustainability right here in Chicago.
The benefits of green roofs extend beyond just the environmental impact, as sustainability and eco-consciousness can be modeled for visitors and staff alike. Installing green roofs can also help encourage other businesses and organizations to do their part in protecting the environment, thereby creating a more sustainable future for all.
Conclusion
Green roofs are becoming increasingly popular in cities worldwide, and their benefits extend far beyond just looking pretty! At Lincoln Park Zoo, incorporating green roofs serves both environmental and educational purposes, ultimately encouraging a culture of environmental stewardship. So now that you know the best-hidden gems at Lincoln Park Zoo, explore the greenery for yourself!
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Source Description
Want in on a secret? The best-hidden gem rooftops are located at Lincoln Park Zoo… our green roofs! Green roofs help purify the air, collect rainwater, and insulate buildings, helping to lower energy usage and be a little more environmentally friendly.
