Intro:
Green roofs have become a go-to solution for urban sustainability—reducing stormwater runoff, lowering building temperatures, and improving air quality. But like any living system, they require smart water management to thrive. One powerful but often overlooked tool in this equation is ozone treatment.
At Net Zero Water, we specialize in advanced water treatment solutions—including ozone—designed to support efficient, sustainable green roof systems. Here’s how ozone can elevate green roof performance and help push your project closer to net-zero water use.
What Is Ozone Treatment?
Ozone (O₃) is a powerful oxidizing agent that breaks down organic contaminants, bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants in water. It’s generated on-site and injected into the water stream, providing a highly effective, chemical-free method of disinfection and purification.
Key Benefits of Ozone Treatment for Green Roofs:
- Disinfection Without Chemicals – Destroys pathogens without residual chlorine or harsh chemicals
- Colour – Removes the yellow/brown tinge from green roof collection, producing clear water.
- Improved Water Quality – Treats greywater or stormwater for safe reuse in irrigation
- System Efficiency – Keeps drip irrigation lines cleaner and reduces maintenance
- Odour Control – Reduces microbial buildup that can cause unpleasant smells
Why It Matters for Green Roofs
Green roofs often rely on alternative water sources like captured rainwater or treated greywater to stay hydrated. Without treatment, these sources can contain:
- Bacteria and algae that clog irrigation
- Organic material that builds up in media
- Pathogens harmful to vegetation and building occupants
Ozone ensures the water feeding your green roof is clean, oxygen-rich, and safe—for plants, systems, and people.
Net Zero Water’s Role
At Net Zero Water, we design and deliver custom ozone treatment systems for green infrastructure applications, including:
- Green roofs
- Living walls
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Stormwater reuse systems
Our systems are compact, fully automated, and built for seamless integration into your green roof irrigation loop. We also provide full support from design to commissioning and ongoing maintenance.
Sustainability Benefits
Ozone treatment doesn’t just protect your system—it helps you reach larger sustainability goals:
- Reduces freshwater use by making non-potable water sources viable
- Cuts down on chemical use and discharge
- Supports Net Zero Water strategies by enabling closed-loop water reuse
Real-World Applications
Ozone treatment is being used across North America in green building projects that prioritize LEED certification, rainwater reuse, and urban water resilience. Whether it’s a commercial high-rise or a community housing complex, ozone offers scalable, dependable water treatment for green roofs of all sizes.
Conclusion:
Green roofs are a visible sign of sustainable design—but what’s flowing beneath the surface matters just as much. Ozone treatment offers a smart, chemical-free way to treat water for irrigation and reuse, making your green roof cleaner, healthier, and more efficient.
At Net Zero Water, our mission is to make sustainable water management practical, efficient, and accessible. From green roofs and rainwater harvesting to advanced treatment and reuse, we design solutions that help projects move closer to true net-zero water use.
If you’re ready to explore how smarter water strategies can support your next project, contact us at netzerowater.ca to get started.