Green facades as a secret weapon for more sustainable buildings and lower energy bills

Thermoregulation and insulation

One of the main benefits of green façades is their ability to regulate the temperature of the interior of the building. During the warm months, plants release water vapour into the air through the process of transpiration, which has the effect of cooling the surrounding air. This natural method of air conditioning can significantly reduce the need to use electricity for cooling, thereby saving energy and money. Conversely, during the winter months, the green facade acts as an additional layer of insulation that helps to retain heat inside the building thereby reducing heating costs.

Reducing the urban heat island

Green facades can make a significant contribution to mitigating or slowing down the urban heat island effect. This phenomenon occurs when urban infrastructure such as buildings, roads, and other surfaces absorb and store heat which increases the temperature in urbanized areas. Plants on green facades help to reduce temperatures by providing shade and cooling the air as it transpires which can improve the overall urban climate and help increase comfort for residents.

Improving air quality

In addition to their thermoregulatory capabilities, green facades also have a positive effect on air quality in cities. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which helps to improve urban air quality. Furthermore, green facades can absorb, break down, and filter various types of pollutants and dust particles, thus acting as a natural filter and improving air quality for all urban dwellers.

Biodiversity and aesthetics

Green facades not only improve energy efficiency and environmental quality but also contribute to the diversity of urban fauna and flora. They provide habitat for many species of birds, insects, and other small animals, which enriches the urban ecosystem. Aesthetically, green facades add visual appeal to buildings and improve the overall appearance of the urban environment which can lead to increased property values.

Psychological and social benefits

Finally, green facades also have a positive psychological and social impact. The presence of greenery in the urban environment has been shown to increase people's sense of well-being, reduce stress, and improve the overall mental well-being of residents.

Given all these benefits, green facades are becoming not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally important elements of modern sustainable cities. As technology advances, these systems are becoming more affordable and efficient which is a big step towards greener and more energy efficient buildings.

And what about yours?

The best solution is to incorporate a green façade into the architectural design of a new building, but we can also add it to existing buildings. Want to know more? Do not hesitate to contact us.