The Patricia R. Guerrieri Academic Commons boasts a number of green features, including a rooftop comprised of living vegetation. The roof is planted with a variety of sedum, a drought hardy succulent. The green roof provides a number of economic and ecological benefits. Green roofs insulate the occupied space below, reducing the energy needed for interior climate control. The roof also aids with storm water management. The plants capture and filter rain water, which in turn reduces runoff and storm water surge entering the sewer system. The roof sustains a variety of life, including beneficial insects and birds. The University’s resident honey bees can often be found foraging among the sedum blooms.
