By reviewing the reasons municipalities throughout the world have set green roof policies and program, policy makers can better determine which policies suit their needs. European jurisdictions have long used green roof technology for stormwater management, to reduce energy use in buildings and to increase amenity space. Green roofs are gaining acceptance throughout North America as knowledge of the environmental benefits and as the technology for green roofs improves.

In Europe, intensively competitive market forces are driving development of green roof technology. These forces include years of accumulated research on membrane technology, roof design and plant performance. Social ideals in Europe that value environmental protection and increasing green space in urban areas also drive development of green roof technology.

Canada does not have the same social conditions and market forces as Europe, but Europe’s experience has lessons for Canadian municipalities considering green roof policies and programs. This Manual gives examples of North American and world green roof policies and programs. From the examples, policy makers may find a good fit for their situations.