Green roof desert oasis in El Paso

EL PASO, TX — The University of Texas at El Paso has taken a step toward sustainability by recently unveiling the first green roof on a commercial building within the Southwest region of the United States, according to KFOX-TV.
The 9,156-square-foot roof, which is covered in plants like regal mist, white evening primrose, sun gold gazania and other native foliage, includes a 6,304-square-foot designated area where faculty can perform environmental research, the story stated.
Ed Soltero, director of Planning and Construction, said: "You know we have neighbors here that are actually able to look into the green roofs, namely the people here at bioscience, the building behind us ... so you're actually able to see migratory birds ... hummingbirds, bees and a lot of other insects, so it's a self-sustainable micro-environment that we're creating."
Not only will the green roof help to maintain a comfortable building temperature while using less energy, but it is also creating a biodiverse environment and providing a sanctuary for plants, animals and insects alike, the story noted.
The green roof on the Biology Building is part of the University of Texas at El Paso Goes Green program and will add to the $2.5 million in annual energy savings resulting from sustainable efforts, the story added.
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