Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Practice Exam

What defines a green roof?

1. A roof painted green for aesthetics

2. A roof covered with vegetation and soil for environmental benefits

3. A roof equipped with solar panels only

4. A regular roof with a garden on the ground

The correct answer is: A roof covered with vegetation and soil for environmental benefits

A green roof is specifically defined as a roof that is covered with vegetation and soil, integrating plant life into the building's architecture. This design not only provides aesthetic value but also offers significant environmental benefits, such as improved air quality, reduced heat island effect, stormwater management, and enhanced biodiversity. The presence of vegetation allows these roofs to absorb rainwater, provide insulation, and reduce energy demands for heating and cooling, thus contributing positively to the building's overall sustainability. This contrasts sharply with the other options, which do not encompass the comprehensive aspects of a green roof. For instance, simply painting a roof green does not involve any vegetation or ecological function. A roof with solar panels lacks the soil and plant integration that is essential for it to be classified as a green roof, and a regular roof with a ground garden does not utilize the roof space itself for plant growth. Therefore, the definition aligns precisely with the true features and purposes of a green roof as outlined in option B.