THE GREENING OF STORMWATER MANAGEMENT MITIGATING THE RISKS OF STORMWATER ON STUDLEY CAMPUS THROUGH THE INSTALLATION OF GREEN ROOFS

Abstract

Our project goal was to address the current issues with stormwater management on Studley Campus and apply a sustainable solution to mitigate the associated environmental damages. By reducing the amount of water on campus from reaching storm sewers, significant reductions can be made in urban road pollution being deposited into the harbour. We acknowledged that green roofing is an affordable and effective method for improving current stormwater management, and in helping promote Dalhousie’s commitment towards a sustainable campus. Dalhousie Master Plan allocated funds annually into sustainable development, specifying that all new developments on campus have green roofing (Dalhousie University, 2010). To complement this requirement, using geographic information systems (GIS) we defined the total viable surface area of buildings on the Studley Campus (250,000 ft2) and estimated an installation cost of approximately $2-2.5 million to the University. Additionally, we examined the alternative benefits of green roofing on the Mona Campbell Building, Halifax Central Library and The Seaport Market. Our findings were applied to estimate effects similar installations would have on the Studley campus buildings. Our recommendation for Dalhousie is to use this preliminary research to incorporate green roofing on all new buildings, as well as existing buildings with sufficient structural ability.