Green roofs

Zeleni krovovi predstavljaju nastavak na ravni ili nagnuti krov, sastavljen od flore. Prisutni su od davnina kao najjednostavniji način skrovišta i zaklona od atmosferskih utjecaja. U odnosu na uobičajene krovove, dulji im je vijek trajanja, a prednjače, između ostalog, i u vidu regulacije temperature i zadržavanja topline, zvučne izolacije, upijanja štetnih tvari i paralelno obogaćivanje zraka kisikom pomoću fotosinteze, te smanjenje ukupne potrošnje energije. Obzirom na debljinu slojeva i samu funkciju, razlikuju se tanji, ekstenzivni, od debljih, intenzivnih krovova, za koje je potrebna veća pažnja pridana hidroizolacijskom sustavu. Osim hidroizolacije i odvodnje, općenito je pri projektiranju zelenog krova važno promotriti sami njegov nagib, paziti na korijenje i zaštitu od prodiranja istog kroz slojeve i izolaciju, osigurati ga od nepovoljnog djelovanja vjetra. Radi stalnog kontakta posađenih biljaka sa vanjštinom, sade se izdržljive vrste podložne različitim vremenskim uvjetima, kao što su najčešće sukulenti. Brojni su primjeri zelenih krovova u svijetu, dok u Republici Hrvatskoj još nisu u potpunosti doživjeli prepoznavanje kakvo zaslužuju.Green roofs represent an extension upon a straight or tilted roof, made out of flora. They have been present since ancient times as the most simple form of a hideout and shelter from any atmospheric impact. As opposed to a conventional roof, their life span is longer, and among other, they are proceeding in regard of temperature regulation and heat retention, sound insulation, absorption of harmful supstance while enriching the air with oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, and reducing the overall energy expenditure. Considering the thickness of the layers and their overall function, there is a difference between the thinner, extensive roofs, and thicker, intensive roofs, which call for a more specified waterproof system. Except for waterproofing and drainage, when designing a green roof it is generally important to consider the slope, watch for the plants' roots and prevent their penetration into the insulating layers, and ensure the roof from lifting caused by wind. Because of constant contact between the plants and the exterior, hardy species like succulents, which are susceptible to different weather conditions, are planted. There are numerous examples of green roofs worldwide, while in Croatia they have yet to receive the recognition they deserve