Service Learning through Rehabilitating a Green Roof

Abstract

As climate change and increased development in urban areas increasingly impact communities, universities need to take a larger role in sustainability education, with a focus on green infrastructure solutions. This case study describes a cocurricular service-learning project on a neglected green roof of an academic building. Over three years, students from seven majors at all undergraduate levels voluntarily rehabilitated the green roof, which included removing weeds and replanting the green roof. Four engineering majors were represented in this effort: civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. Students investigated plant selection, plant placement, and maintenance through planting 12 different species of sedum and one species of thyme in shady and sunny locations. They observed that thyme did not survive on the roof, and plants in the sunny location had more growth but higher die-off compared to the shady location. During the third year, it was clear that irrigation during the summer months and keeping the roof free of weeds was an important part of maintaining the green roof. Surveys indicated that students enjoyed working on the green roof, felt it was rewarding to make the green roof look better, enjoyed working with all grade levels and majors, and felt an increase in the sense of community in the School of Engineering. The green roof provided an opportunity for students to learn about sustainable green stormwater infrastructure, in addition to providing a greater sense of community and increased utilization of the green roof for other curricular purposes. Cocurricular service-learning opportunities incorporating campus or local community green infrastructure can leverage the benefits of service learning while improving community green spaces for the benefit of all students, staff, and faculty.