Pitt’s Green Roof Offers a New Oasis for Students
The University of Pittsburgh has introduced a new “green roof” patio, designed to provide students with a peaceful retreat while also offering environmental benefits. This initiative supports stormwater management, reduces energy consumption, and creates a habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Located on top of Forbes Hall Pavilion, the project transformed an aging building originally constructed in the 1960s. The roof had become problematic over time, as it began to leak and was difficult to access due to the accumulation of dirt. Colleen Edlund, a project manager at Pitt Facilities, explained that the underlying roof system was failing.
To address these issues, the university installed a 6-inch layer of sod over a waterproof membrane, which helps manage rainwater more effectively. This design not only prevents leaks but also promotes proper drainage. Additionally, the area includes a mulched section with trees and plants, along with a stone patio where students can relax, study, or enjoy meals.
“It’s a great little oasis for students housed here,” said Edlund. “It has a nice view. It’s above the noise of traffic. You can hang out and have dinner.”
Pitt now has nine green roof installations across campus, with four of them specifically designed to support pollinators. These spaces offer a safe haven for bees, butterflies, and other important species. The Forbes Hall roof also contributes to natural insulation, reducing energy use and helping to lower indoor temperatures by absorbing solar radiation.
Research has shown that outdoor spaces play a crucial role in improving mental health, especially for college students who often experience high levels of stress. A 2018 study found that 60% of students feel stressed every day, making access to serene environments even more essential.
In addition to its benefits for students, the green roof helps manage stormwater in a major city, where runoff can harm local ecosystems. Pollinators are also vital to the food supply, with one-third of the food we eat relying on their efforts, according to the Department of Agriculture.
Many universities are taking steps to make their campuses more sustainable. At The College of New Jersey, students have volunteered to remove weeds and plant native species. Brown University has installed eight workout machines that generate electricity from student exercise. Pitt itself has replaced plastic containers with reusable stainless steel ones in its dining halls.
Edlund emphasized the importance of creating spaces that cater to student needs. “It’s nice to be reminded when you get involved with spaces designed for student use, including offices and classrooms, that this is where they live,” she said. “I think students get a nice little surprise when they move into Forbes Pavilion. They get an outdoor space that they can use without leaving home.”
As more institutions focus on sustainability and student well-being, initiatives like Pitt’s green roof highlight the potential for innovation in campus design. Whether it’s through self-sustaining gardens, energy-efficient systems, or community-driven projects, universities are finding creative ways to improve both the environment and the student experience.
