Toronto’s Eco-Roof Incentive Program came about for the use of cool and green roofs on Toronto’s  industrial, institutional  and commercial buildings, and to help Toronto’s business community take a larger part in actions on climate change.

There are many environmental benefits of eco-roofs. Cool and green roofs reduce urban heat and energy use, which is a concern as global temperatures rise, not that the humid summers in Toronto are not hot enough already. Green roofs will help manage stormwater runoff, increase biodiversity, beautify our city and improve air quality.

The two types of an “eco-roof” are either a “green roof” that will support vegetation, or a “cool roof” that will reflect the sun’s thermal energy.

Toronto has a new green roof by-law that sets new construction standards requiring green roofs on all new buildings.  Multi unit residences over six stories, schools, non-profit housing, commercial and industrial buildings must have 50% green roof.

The city has stepped in and set a new sustainability future that looks very green indeed.