Public benefits valuation of green roof implementation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact and performance of different green roof systems to manage and control stormwater runoff to prevent watershed pollution over the short and long term in a large urban MSA. A hybrid internet and mail-based stated-preference conjoint choice experiment was administered to residents of the Milwaukee MSA in order to ascertain the public benefits value of green roof infrastructure. This study contributes to the literature on the public benefits of green roofs. The full range of public benefits associated with green roofs, including improved air quality, water quality, biodiversity, and urban heat island effects are estimated. Estimation of all of these public values, allows for determination of the optimal public subsidy for supporting green roofs as a component of decentralized stormwater management in municipalities.