The following press release was sent out by the City of Toronto's Environment Office:

The City of Toronto is now offering financial incentives for green roof and cool roof construction on industrial, commercial and institutional buildings. The Eco-roof program will provide $50 pre square metre of green roof up to $100,000 and $2-5 per square metre of cool roof up to $50,000 for projects on existing buildings. On a one-year pilot basis, the funding will also be available for green roofs on new buildings.

An "eco-roof" refers to green roofs that support vegetation and cool roofs that reflect the sun's thermal energy according to program's performance criteria. Eco-roofs can assist with storm-water management, reduce urban heat and summer cooling demands and beautify your building through increased biodiversity. The Eco-roof program builds on Toronto's successful green roof pilot program and green development strategy.

For full program details and to download application, visit
www.toronto.ca/livegreen/ecoroofs

The closing date for the first round of applications is May 1, 2009.

Learn more about the City of Toronto's support for green roofing.