Bronx School Begins "Green Roof" Installation
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A public school in the Bronx is taking its efforts of "going green" to a whole new level.
The 1,400 square foot roof of greenery at the Alfred E. Smith Career and Technical Education High School in Melrose is the first officially approved Green Roof at a public school.
Trucks began unloading sections of the roof Saturday morning for installation.
Students say the roof can bring many benefits to the school.
"A green roof and a garden helps promote a better foundation for the students here. It would bring benefits like health benefits, it would lower obesity in our school," said one student.
"In the high high months of heat like June, August September you're going to see at least a 65 percent change in the temperature," said another.
Funding for the roof was provided by the City Gardens Club and the New York State department of Environmental Conservation.
Officials say a green roof can last two to three times longer than a typical roof. They also it can reduce heating and cooling costs and manage storm water runoff.