The City of Toronto’s Eco-Roof Incentive Program provides rebates to home and building owners who install green roofs or cool roofs. Now celebrating 15 years of funding, the city is touting the program for how it is helping Toronto become more resilient and adaptive to the growing effects of climate change.
Green roofs are installed on a waterproof membrane and support the growth of vegetation, creating a live, green space. Cool roofs use reflective roofing systems to reflect the sun’s rays, reducing heat and thermal energy. The incentive program plays a crucial role in the City’s TransformTO Net Zero Strategy, aiming to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet the ambitious goal of reaching zero GHG emissions by 2040. Since 2009, the Eco-Roof Incentive Program has directly supported the installation of 627 eco-roof projects, and created over 1.14 million square metres of eco-friendly roof space. Green roofs supported by the program are estimated to have diverted over 18 million litres of stormwater.
The demand is growing. In 2023 alone, 43 projects were completed, totalling 78,000 square metres of roof space.
Successes include a unique green roof installation at the Native Child and Family Services of Toronto, incorporating a longhouse and healing lodge within a biodiverse roof garden, and an expansive green roof at the YMCA of Greater Toronto located at 20 Grosvenor Street, which includes a running track, and meditative green space with pathways and benches.
Net Zero Strategy
As part of the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy, the City has set a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions from existing buildings by half compared to 2008 levels. Green roofs help achieve this by improving energy efficiency, reducing the urban heat island effect, and managing stormwater runoff. Cool roofs reduce sunlight and absorb less heat, reducing cooling energy consumption and mitigating the effects of heatwaves. Cool roofing solutions play a significant role in helping Toronto meet its climate goals while providing measurable benefits to building owners, such as lower energy bills and enhanced property value.
Training for Roofing Professionals
A key element of the Eco-Roof Incentive Program’s success is educating roofing professionals about innovative roofing solutions. As the first point of contact for property owners considering roof replacements, these professionals are uniquely positioned to advocate for eco-roof solutions.
To heighten the impact of the program, the newly developed Ambassador Training Program will be launched in Fall 2024. Specifically designed for building and roofing professionals, the program trains participants on how to effectively apply for the Eco-Roof Incentive Program and market eco-roofs to their clients. By equipping roofing professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills, the City aims to encourage more property owners to adopt sustainable roofing solutions.
The Ambassador Training Program addresses this need by providing comprehensive training on the Eco-Roof Incentive Program. Participants learn how to navigate the application process and effectively communicate the advantages of eco roofs to potential clients.
Professionals who complete the Ambassador Training Program will be listed in a directory on the Eco-Roof Incentive Program’s website, providing a direct link to roofing system experts and a valuable resource for property owners seeking qualified professionals already familiar with the program. By connecting property owners with trained experts, the program increases the likelihood of successful eco-roof installations and helps maximize potential environmental benefits.
Get Involved
Roofing and building professionals interested in joining the Ambassador Training Program should email ecoroof@toronto.ca for more information. By participating, professionals not only gain valuable knowledge and skills but also contribute to the movement toward sustainability and climate resilience in the city of Toronto.
To learn more, visit Eco-Roof Incentive Program – City of Toronto. Together, we can build a resilient, more sustainable city.
