Green Roofs

Eco-roofs help to purify the air by absorbing pollutants; soak up rainwater, thereby reducing storm-water runoff that pollutes rivers and streams; and keep a rooftop 10 to 20 degrees cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which means lowered air conditioning and heating bills, fewer fossil fuels wasted, and a healthier environment. Green roofs also allow creative types to show some personality, as Emilio Ancaya did with his inventive birdhouse design.