"Humans have physiological reactions to natural beauty and diversity, to the shapes and colors of nature, especially to green, and to the motions and sounds of other animals," (taken from a quote by Frederick Law Olmstead, Dramstad, et al, 1996).  Greenroofs can help to visually ease the stress created by a lack of greenspace in urban communities.  By intertwining culture and nature, we can actively design to regenerate human and ecological health (Van der Ryn and Cowan, 1996).

Many psychological studies have proven that the overall quality of life can be enhanced by the addition of natural green spaces. Distinct therapeutic links exist between moods, health, re-cooperation time and nature.  It has been suggested that mental health and emotional stability are positively influenced by green spaces and with interaction of other elements of nature.  Green spaces reflect the changing seasons and provide a psychological link with the countryside.  Greenroofs could certainly be part of a comprehensive therapeutic environment, especially when contrasted to viewing the more common ugly roof spaces from a hospital window.

In urban settings creative greenroof plan views offer a welcome respite from dreary gravel, asphalt & concrete roof canyons.   People living or working in downtown areas would benefit from experiencing the many plant colors, movement and the visiting wildlife, which could then contribute to the overall richness of the city.  

Sense of community can be fostered through shared intensive greenroof gardens.  Who could resist the rural allure of a garden in an urban setting?   Amenity space and leisure activity is possible through community gardening and human interaction with areas for seating and sharing time in a recreated natural setting.  Lost garden areas in the city can be relocated on an intensive greenroof, and 400 mm, or 15" deep soil is sufficient to cultivate tomatoes and other vegetables.  

Ecological Advantages | Economic Advantages | Aesthetic Advantages | Psychological Advantages

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