Little Green Roofs is an exciting project from Red Rose Forest, working with local communities to create green roofs on small, uninhabited, communal buildings and structures around Manchester.
These green roofs help to create fantastic roof-top hotspots for greenery and biodiversity and help to reduce the impact of local climate change.
What are the benefits of green roofs? The impact of this project has been phenomenal and has helped to tackle climate change by:
Absorbing the sun's rays - lowering temperatures
Thermal insulation - reducing energy spent on heating buildings
Intercepting precipitation - reducing the chance of flooding
Encouraging nature into our cities - increased nature and biodiversity
Raising awareness of climate change - showing how everyone can help
Educating and inspiring - including people not interested in climate change
Increasing sustainability - including herbs, spices and vegetables on roofs
What does the project do?
Working closely with diverse communities across Manchester, we set out to transform the roofs of small, uninhabited, communal buildings into natural green spaces.
We approached community centres, places of worship, colleges, schools, allotment societies and health centres across Manchester and encourage them to get involved with constructing a Little Green Roof.
Plus, each roof is supported by an innovative education session for the people who will look after the roof and those who use the building the roof is on.
"Having a green roof installed on a shed or container is much easier than you might think, and will be the talk of your neighbourhood. We are looking for small, uninhabited buildings where the roofs can be transformed into eye catching new habitats. So if you know of any suitable community buildings, get in touch with us." Kevin from Red Rose Forest
"The roof is a symbol of growth and everyone is inspired by it. Because people can see it from the street, we hope it will start a discussion and encourage people to be creative and make small changes that will help the environment." Reverend Elizabeth Davies, St Chad's Church, Withington.
"Children will get involved with looking after the garden. They will learn important practical lessons about wildlife, biodiversity and the impacts of climate change." Gerry Constant, Head Teacher, Stanley Grove Primary School, Longsite.
More information
If you think you know of a small roof in Manchester suitable for greening, if you want to get involved in building a green roof, or for more information, please contact Kevin Wigley, Green Streets Project Officer on 0161 872 1660 or at
Little Green Roofs is a Red Rose Forest project, part funded by Manchester City Council's Carbon Innovation Fund.
