Green "Living" Roof

Green "Living" Roof
Originally uploaded by kqedquest

The new Cal Academy will be covered in a "living roof" - to be planted with approximately 1.7 million plants. Native species like California poppies, Beach strawberries and miniature lupine will attract and provide habitat for local butterflies and bees.

The roof will also provide an insulating layer for the building that will reduce energy needs for air-conditioning. Approximately 2 million gallons of rainwater each year will be prevented from becoming storm-water runoff that carries pesticides, oil, litter, and other pollutants into the San Francisco Bay and other ecosystems.

FYI- This photo is part of the Green Building Revolution - KQED QUEST Flickr Set.
View the companion KQED TV piece on KQED QUEST and discuss it in the QUEST Science Blog.