Green Roof Policy Copenhagen

In 2010 the city of Copenhagen introduced a policy that makes the installation of green roofs compulsory for newly constructed buildings with roof slopes < 30 degrees. Today, 10 years later, there is an estimated area of 200.000 m2 of roof gardens in the city. Green roofs have many advantages, especially concerning climate and air quality. Green roofs can capture up to 80% of rainfall, reducing the risk of flooding. In addition, they reduce the urban heat island effect and maintain biodiversity. In 2012 the green roof policy was included within the CPH 2025 climate plan, which aims to make Copenhagen climate neutral by 2025 and is itself a best practice example. Copenhagen is not alone, other cities have similar policies in place: Basel, Munich, Portland, San Francisco, Tokyo or Toronto.