Abstract: Green roofs have many different benefits that fit into both environmental and social categories, however there are many high costs associated with their installation. Some research has been conducted regarding the installation costs and base payback period of green roofs, but they are still largely unattainable for most investors. This study aimed to reduce the payback period of green roofs by implementing urban agriculture in the garden, selling the produce to the surrounding area, and using the profits to pay off the roof. A cost-benefit analysis was conducted in order to focus on the monetary aspects of green roofs and bonds were used to get over the initial payment, which added a bit of interest to be paid off in the end. The new payback period was calculated using energy savings and produce profit while keeping the bond timeline in consideration. The study was able to conclude that urban agriculture is effective in reducing the payback period of a green roof on a medium sized suburban public school from six to five years while still creating a profit.

Keywords: Green Roof, Urban Agriculture, Payback Period, Sustainability