Creating a positive urban climate with green façades

Climate change and urban densification are forcing us to rethink and act. Urban heat effects are caused by the sun, dark buildings and streets, sealed surfaces and rapid rainwater run-off.

Green complements green - horizontally and vertically

Solutions to counteract urban heat islands are largely associated with urban greenery. This is because plants contribute to evapotranspiration and thus to evaporative cooling. Due to the densely built-up areas in the city, green roofs and façades are the most suitable solutions. Green roofs are primarily used for rainwater management and flood prevention, while green façades are used for microclimatic improvements and heat prevention.

Green façade - the advantages at a glance

• it looks beautiful and makes you feel good
• with its evaporation capacity, it provides "fresh" air and helps to counteract urban heat islands
• it not only cools the building and its surroundings through evaporation, but also protects the building from the intense summer heat by providing shade
• the building wall is protected from the effects of weather (storms, hail, heavy rain), UV radiation and (even if it sounds strange at first) graffiti
• Reduction of sound reflection (see also noise barriers)
• Binding of fine dust and nitrogen oxides
• Habitats and nesting opportunities for small animals and birds

Especially in summer, green façades - in combination with other measures - represent a promising approach to positively changing the climate in cities.