What can the GreenGrid® system do to help reduce stormwater runoff?
Rainfall on forested and undeveloped land is almost entirely redistributed through its natural cycle into the atmosphere, water bodies, and aquifers. However, in metropolitan areas, buildings and streets dominate the landscape, preventing rainwater from following a natural distribution. In urban areas, a startling 75% of rainwater can become surface runoff, often carrying contamination and pollution. This water flows untreated into water bodies and open water sources. Green roofs help alleviate this problem through absorption and recycling of rainwater. The GreenGrid® system can absorb up to 99% of a 1-inch rainfall. Runoff potential is reduced, lessening the risk of flooding and sewer overflows. By slowly percolating through the GreenGrid® growing media, roof runoff occurs several hours after peak flows. This provides additional time for sewer systems to handle other uncontrolled runoff.
