Survey on green roofs in Poland

¹ Faculty of Civil Engineering, Cracow University of Technology, 24 Warszawska Street, 31 – 155 Krakow, Poland
² Graduate of Cracow University of Technology, Poland

^* Corresponding author: elzbieta.radziszewska-zielina@pk.edu.pl

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to present the results of a survey on green roofs among potential real estate developers and users, concerning knowledge about, awareness of the benefits of, and interest in green roofs. The survey sample consisted of 151 persons – potential owner-builders from Poland. This is not a large number, but it is significant. The research sample was purposive and statistically insignificant, and the study was an initial part of a larger project. Greenery in urban settings positively affects human quality of life and health and contact with nature improves well-being and reduces stress. Roofs covered with greenery are also a sign of growing environmental awareness. In Poland, green roofs are usually a feature of public and commercial buildings. The low popularity of this solution in single-family housing has its source in potential owner-builders being unaware of the benefits of the roofs’ application, funding opportunities, and benefits in the form of a greater amount of biologically active surfaces. Currently, the technology of covering roofs with greenery is highly developed, and there are many experienced contractors who operate on the Polish market. However, there is a deficiency in knowledge about green roofs among real estate developers and prospective owner-builders, which constitutes a demand barrier. Many people are anxious about using a green roof out of fear of high construction costs and necessary greenery maintenance. This is due to misinformation, as it is possible to use an extensive, low-maintenance roof type. In the case of an intensive roof, the maintenance largely resembles that of a traditional domestic garden. The costs of creating a roof garden are higher than in the case of traditional roofing materials, but a smaller plot could be bought as a result, as a greater amount of biologically active surfaces can be obtained to meet zoning regulations. In Poland, there are currently no legal regulations that obligate or incentivise the use of green roofs. The popularity of this solution is growing, which gives hope for making cities greener. In an era of progressing climate change, building additional green spaces, including those on roofs, is a crucial remedy for the severe consequences of unsustainable urbanisation.