Weekly Blogs

GREENING CITIES CONFERENCE - SAVE THE DATE

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 23:55:00 GMT

Just a quick note to flag the dates 9th November - 12th November which is when Greening Cities conference comes to town.

With an impressive line up of key note speakers (Patric Blanc, Dusty Gedge) this conference a MUST ATTEND one for those interested in developments in the Green Roofs industry.

This year's conference will be building on the growth and momentum that we have developed over the past five years with the primary objectives of this year's conference being:

- Focus on driving green roof and green wall implementation in Sydney & throughout NSW.

- Supporting different sectors and disciplines to share an appreciation of their benefits to urban development and application for our climate

- Demonstrating the technological and environmental benefits, sharing and disseminating good practice and promoting the implementation of green infrastructure into our cities

- Providing an educational Training Workshop for the general public, with accredited CPD & GBCA points for professionals.

- Promoting the City of Sydney 2030 Vision, to transform Sydney into one of the worlds' greenest cities

City of Sydney - Working towards a more sustainable apartment building sector

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 23:57:00 GMT

Junglefy is very exicited to witness the role City of Sydney is taking in leading the greening our urban environment.

City of Sydney has recently released information on its plan to inspire, drive and support greener, more cost effective and efficient buildings through it 'Smart Green Apartments' programme.

Working with a range of buildings in the City of Sydney area, this program will identify how much energy and water a building is consuming, and show how and when to make changes to reduce consumption, improve efficiency and save money. Smart Green Apartments will also look at waste management within participating buildings.

Find out more about the program by contacting Melinda Cook, Sustainability Engagement Coordinator for the City of Sydney, on 02 9265 9333 or smartapartments@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.

Green Roofs Tour - Sydney

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:10:00 GMT

Today, together with Cfree, Junglefy hosted a Green Roof Tour which was an organised tour visiting a number or existing green roofs in Sydney. We visited one of the Sydney’s oldest green roofs, located at NSW Parliament House, 30 years old and counting. Great leadership by example, now we need your help with better policy that advances green urbanism as well!

After seeing the history, we then traveled to see Central Park development, which will feature worlds largest and tallest green wall. Below is the sample of what is coming to Broadway in Sydney.

A $2bn district development, that will contribute to sustainability of south Sydney through increased green amenity space, sewage treatment and a number of other sustainability measures.

We then saw the latest in extensive green roof technology at RT Health Building, with medium depth <200mm. Very cost effective option for increasing eco-system services within urban environment.

As part of the tour a guest speaker Shahryar Ahrestani gave a talk in “A Multi-Criteria Site Selection Model for Green Roofs in the Sydney CBD-A GIS Approach” which was very interesting a really well received. Cutting edge research and excellent modelling tool for larger scale informed decision-making that will maximise benefits of green roof infrastructure. This type of approach to decision-making is what we are advocating for, to ensure best practice environment for all of us to enjoy.

If you didn’t make the tour this time, don’t worry, we will have next event on the 21st of October! And as always, please get in touch should you have any questions and comments!

Central Park Development

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:21:00 GMT

Central Park is the visionary redevelopment of the old Carlton & United Brewery site, bordered by Broadway and Abercrombie Streets in Chippendale.

The modified concept masterplan for this rare site was approved by the NSW Minister for Planning in February 2009, and includes the protection of heritage buildings, new parklands and community facilities and substantial upgrades to urban infrastruture. The project is underpinned by exemplary social and environmental sustainability initiatives– creating a new, people-centred gateway to Sydney’s CBD.

Central Park is the largest urban development in Australia to introduce on-site tri-generation (known as ‘green transformers’) for power, heating and cooling.

CPD (Continuing Professional Development) Learning Outcomes

Wed, 11 May 2011 10:54:00 GMT

Learning Outcomes:

1. Understand the positive environmental impact of greenroofing in sustainable architecture

2. Understand the long term economic benefits of a greenroof

3. Understand how to write a clear greenroof and or greenwall specification

1. Greenwalls and Greenroofs potentially contribute to 5 Green Star points in which categories?

Ecological Value of Site (1 Point)Stormwater Reduction (1 Point)Efficient use of potable water (1 point)Inclusion of Indoor plants (2 points)

2. Extensive Greenroofs help to reduce both pollution and the surface run off entering the drainage system by retaining, on average, what percentage of average rainfall?

A greenroof will typically intercept between 60-100% of average rainfall.

3. A Greenroof system protects the root resistant waterproof membrane from climatic extremes, UV light and mechanical damage, in so doing it extends the life of the waterproof membrane by how long?

Greenroofs can double the membrane life expectancy.

4. We recommend a minimum acceptable depth of 120mm of mineral based growing media for Extensive roofs. Why?

To mitigate against the drying effects of the sun and maximise

To allow room for planting mature enough to cope with the climate.

To facilitate long term function of the mandatory sub- surface irrigation system.5. For over 15 years, a German guide to the Planning, Execution and Upkeep of Green-Roof Sites has been the only internationally recognised set of standards, what is it known as
Forschungsgesellschaft Landschaftsentwicklung Landschaftsbau .... !

or FLL Guidelines to non German speakers

Junglefy Makes the TOP 50 List of StartupSmart Awards!

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 04:20:00 GMT

Junglefy is proud to announce having been ranked no.33 on the TOP 50 list of Australian Start up companies on the StartupSmart Awards at Crown in Melbourne on Wednesday night.

The awards recognise the most innovative and fastest-growing new businesses in Australia. Featuring exciting start-ups from an array of industries, drawn from across the country, the winners represent the emerging generation of business leaders in Australia.

The recognition for Junglefy confirms our beliefs of the potential for our fantastic future business and adds more fuel to our already hot engines! Our team is always looking for a challenge and to improve our ranking on this list and one day to be on top of it is a challenge we will look forward to tackling!

http://www.startupsmart.com.au/startupsmart-awards-2011/33.-junglefy.html

Science of Green Walls

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 00:01:00 GMT

This install was done in a private girls’ school in Melbourne recently. Junglefy was chosen to install two green walls in the newly constructed science building. In keeping with the learning theme Junglefy offered a tailored solution to help incorporate learning outcomes for the students and teachers. The walls are both of differing plant designs each with 14 different species.

The wall pictured has a fully automated irrigation system which is powered via a dedicated solar panel and battery on the roof. The wall also has a display cabinet which shows the students in real-time the solar charge, battery voltage, irrigation cycle as well as the pH, EC and temperature of the irrigation reservoir.

Growing Team

Sun, 20 Mar 2011 09:37:00 GMT

After a busy few months in the world of green roofs and green walls Junglefy has expanded its team with two new arrivals.

Louise is our brand new CAD Design Specialist who has for 5 years been developing her keen eye for detail and understanding of sustainable landscape design by working with several landscape architects both large and small. Junglefy is very excited to have her on board as we believe she will be in a unique position to support our green roof and green wall clients with her strong design skills and a thorough understanding of these technologies.

Our second new recruit is no rookie when it comes to green roofs and green walls. With over 5 years of experience from the UK green roof industry Natasha has taken on the role of a Technical Consultant and liaises and guides our green roof and green wall clients through the process from start to finish. With her insight, knowledge and passion for all things associated with living roofs and living walls she is undoubtedly a key member of our team.

Junglefy warmly welcomes both Louise and Natasha and is proud to have these skilled and experienced people in its team!

Tasmanian Walls

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 08:16:00 GMT

We have recently finished these beautiful green walls for a private client in Tasmania. What a fabulous way to add vibrance to your home.

Greening of Cities Take Shape

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:30:00 GMT

There was an interesting article in the Sydney Morning Herald Commercial Real Estate section on the weekend that highlighted the fact that companies now see sustainability as a key factor in the decision making process when choosing office space. It also stated that half of Corporate Realestate Executives are willing to pay more for space in a green building.

A survey conducted by Jones Lang LaSalle found that sustainability is a critical issue today for 64% of respondents and 92% consider sustainability criteria in their location decisions.

The survey also found that 31% of corporate executives ranked employee productivity and health as their top sustainability concern. Green roofs and green walls are able to provide an effective means to meet these sustainability concerns.

It is hoped this survey will encourage developers and asset managers to incorporate more green roofs and walls into their developments to attract higher callibre tenants. It was recently stated by a leading development executive that they will build green roofs and walls if the tenants demand it. Well it appears that the tenants aredemanding it so we look forward to seeing green roofs and vertical gardens on every street corner and roof top soon.

Source: SMH, Feb 19-20, 2011 - Carolyn Cummins

Green Roofs Election Promise

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 22:45:00 GMT

How exciting!

Victorian Liberal National Coalition has announced a $5 million dollar Living Victoria plan. The coalition's partnership with Melbourne City Council is aimed at improving air quality, conserve energy and reduce the cities temperature through the introduction of Green Roofs on the concrete roof tops of Melbourne.

This is a clear indication that the gevernments are now waking up to the breath of benefits the Green Roofs industry can deliver into our urban environments and yet again we highly commend the Victorian government leading the way!

Junglefy taking farming to the rooftops

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 22:06:00 GMT

Junglefy is working with Australian councils to identify suitable rooftops on to which a rooftop farm could be established.

This is an exciting project inspired by the groundbreaking work of New York's Eagle Street Rooftop Farm. The pioneers of what is believed to be the first rooftop farm in the US are cultivating fresh vegetables on 2000 square metres on top of a warehouse rooftop in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

The Eagle Street Rooftop Farm is showcased internationally as a pioneer in the urban farming movement. Volunteers maintain the farm from seeding to harvest. Sundays are open to everyone from beginners to green thumbs and the farm also hosts free 2pm workshops in partnership with Growing Chefs on Sundays to encourage the spread of urban agriculture knowledge (and as they say "give the volunteers a break from the midday heat").

Also under construction in Queens, New York is a hydroponic rooftop farm which will require no soil at all. This $1.4 million venture expects to be growing leaf lettuce, herbs and other produce by early next year and the large American WholeFoods Market chain has already signed up as a customer.

The environmental payoffs of a rooftop farm include:
• The plants ability to absorb rainwater that would otherwise make its way in to the storm water system
• The fact that a layer of soil and vegetation helps insulate the building and reduces energy usage
• The production of locally grown food, which doesn’t travel far and so lessens the carbon footprint further. The more green roofs we build the more we collectively mitigate the “heat island effect” in our urban areas.

Junglefy's excited to be involved in introducing the revolution of rooftop farming to Australia. It all began with the idea to expand Sydney’s City Farm pushing it upwards on to a rooftop.

It is only natural that Junglefy’s strong history of growing food such as fruit in terrestrial landscapes, knowledge of horticulture, permaculture and expertise with green roofs has led to this project to launch rooftop farms in Australia.

The criteria Junglefy team are looking for in finding compatible rooftops includes evaluating the size of the rooftop, the load-bearing capacity, accessibility, aesthetics of the outlook and positioning for optimum sunlight and protection from wind, as well as proximity to restaurants and cafes who could use the fresh produce. Any suggestions would be most welcome info@junglefy.com.au

There is the possibility for a rooftop farm to a commercially viable model to produce local food which also offers educational and community opportunities.

The project is expected to attract worldwide attention and enthusiastic community support. The idea for this “arable” roofscape is to create a model that can then be expanded to other buildings around Australia.

Sources: http://rooftopfarms.org/, http://www.sydneycityfarm.org/

Photo Source: www.RooftopFarms.org and www.Goodegreennyc.com

Mandatory green roof policy hits the world stage

Sun, 24 Oct 2010 22:32:00 GMT

Copenhagen, Denmark is the latest city to follow the green roofs revolution with its mandatory green roof policy which has come in to effect this year.

All new development proposals, where the roof pitch is under 30 degrees, are now required to be vegetated.

The policy requires all new Copenhagen rooftops to meet at least two of the following effects:

1. Absorbs 50-80% of the precipitation that falls on the roof
2. Provides insulating effect and reduces reflection
3. Helps to make the city greener and counteracts rising temperatures in the city
4. Contributes to a visual aesthetic in a way that has a positive effect on quality of life
5. Doubles the roofing lifespan as it is protected against UV rays.

These mandatory green roof requirements are part of Copenhagen's ambitious target of becoming the world’s first carbon neutral capital by 2025.

The modern "trend" started when green roofs were developed in Germany in the 1960s and have since spread to many countries. Today, it is estimated that about 10% of all German roofs have been “greened”. Green roofs are also becoming increasingly popular in the United States, although they are not as common as in Europe.

The rest of the world has been a long way behind the German lead, but the speed cities are now placing mandatory policies in place is gaining great momentum, which is very encouraging.

Australia, is lagging behind when it comes to creating mandatory green roof policy as there are no formal green roof policies or planning instruments in place at this stage.

There are some programs to recognise and encourage green roofs particularly in South Australia, Melbourne and Sydney and there is also the green star rating system in Australia, but as yet, this does not have any specific category or rating for green roofs.

Currently green roofs can be included in "innovative" category and can be used to contribute towards energy saving ratings in some projects.

Cities and countries leading the world in green roof policy include:

• Basel, Switzerland
• Germany (Country-wide )
• Chicago, USA
• Cologne, France
• Linz, Austria
• Toronto, Canada
• London, UK is in the process of developing a policy and planning framework which is to include mandatory targets.

Junglefy hopes to work with various industry partners to drive similar change in Australia.

Sources: http://www.greenroofs.com/Greenroofs101/industry_support.htm, http://www.visitcopenhagen.com/tourist/what_to_see_and_do/inspiration/green_copenhagen/co2_neutral_in_2025, http://www.livingroofs.org/copenhagen-green-roofs.html, http://web01.redland.qld.gov.au/robo/Minutes_Agendas/April_June10/Agendas%5CMay%5C5_May_PP%5CGreenRoofs_Appendix_2_policy_review.pdf

Junglefy goes back to school

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 02:51:00 GMT

Junglefy is set to begin work on a large-scale green wall project at a Sydney girls' high school. Infact the project has already begun with the sourcing of plants preparing for work to commence onsite in November.

The project involves the design and construction of four individual walls totaling 137 square metres – there is currently no green wall at a larger scale in Sydney.

Covering one of the walls of the large assembly hall, the vertical green landscape is divided in to four sections separated by the doors to the assembly hall. The vertical garden forms a haven of greenery for the corridor between two buildings.

Being a girl’s school the request was for lots of flowers and so a mixture of natives and exotic flowering plants have been chosen. The plant palette has also had to take in to consideration the need to have low physiological effects for allergy-affected children who suffer such conditions as hayfever and asthma.

Junglefy’s design for the vertical wall is set to create the maximum visual impact and educational opportunity for the kids.

The challenge of the site is that plants need to cope with two extremes in sunlight, ranging from large periods of shade during winter to long hot periods of sun in summer. And as is the nature of planting between two buildings, a wind tunnel can form on windy days.

Working with the school’s committee and educators, an exciting program has been created for the school. The walls offer a healthy and productive place to learn with hands-on learning opportunities across the school’s many disciplines.

Junglefy are to supply extra modules to the school so students and teachers can conduct experiments across different subjects including the sciences, chemistry and biology as well as home economics and agricultural classes. There is a great deal of learning possibilities around growing plants, especially in a vertical environment – measuring elements such as water, and the effects of nutrients and testing of the chemical makeup of soils. The green wall provides an exciting platform for learning.

The plan that now kicks in to action is for Junglefy to grow the plants offsite for 3 months, they are then planted in to modules where growing continues for a further three months before being installed at the school early next year. The modules will appear onsite beautiful and full – a wall of this magnitude can’t help but impress.

Trend Alert: The Junglefy approach to Facade Greening

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 03:22:00 GMT

At the cutting edge of sustainable building design is the increasingly popular practice of facade greening.

Facade greening involves the design and construction of vertical gardens of climbing plants and trained shrubs to cover the surface of a building via a system of trellises, cables, rods or mesh.

Green facades can dramatically reduce the maximum temperatures of a building by as much as 50% by shading walls from the sun, which is especially important in warm climate zones like Australia.

Junglefy works closely with the market leading Ronstan who create high density bespoke facade greening systems.

The strong integration of Ronstan’s engineering, structural and construction expertise along with Junglefy's horticultural, design and soil engineering expertise, forms the perfect partnership for the team to manage a complete facade greening project.

When it comes to façade greening, understanding the behaviour of specialised plants and the growing medium is a science in itself. The physical properties of tailor-made lightweight soils have lifecycle considerations as properties change over time causing structures to slump and deteriorate. It's important to get it right from the outset.

Well thought out long term plans for green facade structures and the planting are critical to keep plant and structural renewal and replacement to a minimum. Green facades can have great potential to look after themselves to a certain extent when well-planted.

Green facades are now becoming more of a commercially viable prospect for reinvigorating current buildings as well as integrating in to new developments. They positively impact a building's running costs and offer a genuine response to climate change.

With space at a premium and urban environments being threatened by high-density developments, innovations such as green facading, living walls and green roofs are becoming more and more an attractive option.

The Junglefy approach is to create unique and aesthetic green facades that take into consideration the practical requirements unique to each site.

Working in close collaboration with the client as well as developers and architects, Junglefy design and build the most practical and self-sustaining solution possible.

The major considerations are:
> Complexity, durability and the serviceability of a site
> The environmental factors including light tolerance and water requirements
> Plant choice, foliage density and coverage
> The overall purpose, mood, look and feel aspired to.

Green facades are in essence the development of microclimates that have the potential to thermally and acoustically insulate buildings while producing oxygen and appealing to people on a social and psychological level. Beautifully designed green facades have the potential to really inspire people to actively engage with a building.