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Two-Dimensional Visualization and Quantification of Labile, Inorganic Plant Nutrients and Contaminants in Soil
Published on: September 1, 2020
Metal and nutrient dynamics on an aged intensive green roof
A F Speak1, J J Rothwell, S J Lindley
1Geography, School of Environment and Development, The University of Manchester, Arthur Lewis Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)
|September 11, 2013
Summary
Aged green roofs can release legacy metal pollution, particularly lead (Pb), into runoff, exceeding water quality standards. This finding is crucial for green roof design aiming for pollution remediation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Urban Ecology
- Water Quality Management
Background:
- Green roofs are promoted for stormwater management and urban pollution mitigation.
- The long-term impact of aged green roofs on water quality, especially metal leaching, is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare runoff and rainfall quality between an aged intensive green roof and a conventional roof.
- To assess the potential of aged green roofs as a source of metal pollution.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of runoff and rainfall quality.
- Measurement of nutrient and metal concentrations (Cu, Pb, Zn, Fe).
- Evaluation of input-output fluxes for key pollutants.
Main Results:
- Nutrient levels in runoff were generally below Environmental Quality Standards (EQS), with nitrate (NO3-) retention observed.
- Concentrations of copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in runoff exceeded EQS.
- Green roof runoff showed significantly higher iron (Fe) and lead (Pb) concentrations compared to the bare roof and rainfall.
- Input-output analysis indicated the aged green roof as a potential source of Pb, likely from historical atmospheric deposition.
Conclusions:
- Aged green roofs can act as a source of legacy metal pollution, specifically lead.
- High Pb concentrations in green roof soil and roof dust contribute to runoff pollution.
- Consideration of historical metal deposition is essential for green roof design focused on pollution remediation.
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