STUDY OF ROOF GARDENS IN NUS

Wong Nyuk Hien, Lin Huimin, Nedyomukti* & Steve Kardinal Jusuf

2nd Building Research Student Network Symposium, National University of Singapore, Singapore.

28 March 2007

ABSTRACT:
Singapore has undergone rapid urbanization. Study shows that the huge concentration of thermal mass (building) contributes to environmental problems such as the Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect. Heat accumulated within the urban landscape during the day is released at night resulting in higher night temperatures than normal. As the temperature in an urban area rises, more cooling energy is needed to maintain comfort levels in building structures. In addition, the UHI effect is compounded by air pollution, which reduces night-time terrestrial radiation, and by the low humidity which results from the lack of vegetation. A heat island is developed during calm conditions; winds disperse heat.

The object study of this research is inside the premises of National University of Singapore (NUS). With the introduction of new buildings to NUS Master Plan 2005, it might lead to the development of UHI. Urban greenery, such as planting of grass, trees, and shrubs could minimize the impact of the UHI effect. The potential of roof gardens within the campus was quantified and studied to further improve the urban greenery. The aim of this research seeks to study the way greenery helps in mitigating the UHI effect and determine the direct and indirect effects of the two types of rooftop garden (intensive type and extensive type).

Keywords: urban greenery, roof garden, NUS