On June 21, 2023, ASLA helped Representative Nydia Velázquez (NY) reintroduce the Public School Green Rooftop Program Act, legislation to develop green roofs at public schools. Green roofs provide various economic, environmental, and public health benefits such as lower energy costs, water use, stormwater runoff, landfill waste, and building operating expenses, in addition to improved air and water quality, excess heat mitigation, biodiversity, and academic performance.

Specifically, the measure:

• Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize State energy conservation plans to allow grants for green roofs at public schools.
• Allows additional funding for up to five years for the maintenance of the green roof.
• Prioritizes projects for public schools that serve low-income and high-pollution neighborhoods.
• Prioritizes projects that meet performance and nationally recognized standards for green roofs, including The Sustainable SITES Initiative® (SITES®).
• Recognizes the role of landscape architects as leaders in planning and designing green roofs.

“Energy savings, heat mitigation, and a nature-based learning environment that supports local wildlife makes the Public School Green Rooftop Program Act a victory for students and budget-conscious administrators alike,” said Torey Carter-Conneen, CEO of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Read here for the benefits of ASLA's Green Roof. 

Write your legislators today and urge them to support the Public School Green Rooftop Program Act!