Many people view Chicago as a city of tall skyscrapers, concrete highways and industrial expanses. However many visitors to the city are surprised and the variety of gardens and parks. It really is an environmentally friendly city. It is embracing green construction along with other industries such as solar and wind power.
Green roofs are multiplying throughout the city. In fact they have over two million square feet of rooftop gardens across the city. You can drive around and visit a McDonald’s, or an Apple shop incorporating a green roof in its design. Even the City Hall has a green roof. These rooftop gardens are a place where workers can relax and enjoy tranquil surroundings during their busy days. A retreat featuring lush vegetation, a pool and even wildlife is a wonderful place to escape from the stress of day to day life.
The environmental benefits of a rooftop garden include additional insulation, the recycling of rainwater, and lowering air temperatures. Green roofs fall in to two categories – intensive which have a deeper variety of plant materials and extensive which cover a larger area with less dense vegetation.
Along with rooftop gardens the city leaders of Chicago have been persistent in developing all types of environmental strategies. The result is a wealth of international awards and recognition. In the past thirty years the city has planted over half a million trees. Along with this the amount of park space in the city has been increased. And lakefront areas have been cleaned up and are continually undergoing pollution reduction strategies. All of this are shaping Chicago into being the green leader in the country.
Article provided by Chicago DUI Attorney providing legal services for drivers.
Image via Creative Commons
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