Tax Credits for Green Roofs

Green roofs are nothing new to Boston. Now, with proposed tax credits, green roofs could be more affordable.

The Boston Herald reports that Boston Mayor Thomas Menino "...filed legislation in January to establish a green building tax credit for measures that increase energy efficiency, improve air quality and reduce environmental impacts." $10 Off All Online Flower Orders. Over 75,000 florists world-wide offering same-day flower delivery at a discount.

The Mayor's actions are partly in response to a study by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, "...found the number of projects its members worked on grew by more than 35 percent last year, thanks in part to tax credits offered by cities including New York and Chicago."

The tax credit would recognize the higher cost of construction for green roofs, but would also reward the communal benefits of reducing air pollution and storm water runoff. Additionally, the intangible value of beautification can't be ignored. Water Barrels and Storage

While the tax credit method of encouraging green roofs differs dramatically from Toronto's, Tokyo's, and Switzerland's laws mandating green roofs, I personally prefer the tax credit. A tax credit is an incentive and promotes positive behavior, as well as encouraging others to follow suit.

Hat tip to dinoperna at Twitter!