NYC seeks green‑roof samples
NYC's DEP is calling for product samples for green‑roof performance testing—submission deadline is March 27, 2026, signaling active municipal R&D in rooftop systems (thecitylife.org). Recent reports argue rooftop amenity green roofs yield measurable economic, social and environmental returns if maintained proactively ( ).
The field experiment will be run in partnership with Drexel University and with technical support from eDesign Dynamics, according to the DEP announcement. (nyc.gov) Testing will use a weighing-lysimeter facility that compares three 4‑inch “standard” green‑roof replicates against three replicates of each submitted proprietary system, with each system monitored side‑by‑side under identical weather conditions. (nyc.gov) Each manufacturer is asked to supply, at no cost, three small‑scale samples sized 1 m2 for placement on individual lysimeter platforms. (nyc.gov) Participants will receive full access to both raw and processed performance data and a direct hydrologic comparison to the 4‑inch standard green roof as part of the study deliverables. (nyc.gov) The DEP says the trial is expressly intended to evaluate newer approaches—storage‑based, wick‑driven, fleece‑based and hybrid blue‑green roofs—with the goal of expanding approved low‑depth, lower‑weight solutions and informing updates to design guidance and regulatory standards. (nyc.gov) Interested manufacturers are asked to confirm interest and coordinate sample delivery with Grace Hiestand (ghiestand@auroran.net), and the materials are slated to be delivered to the testing facility in spring 2026. (nyc.gov)
