CORNET / IGF, BMWK: EVERGREEN - Enhancing VERtical GREENing Systems Resilience and Characterization through Dedicated Monitoring Techniques

Despite the many potential benefits, the implementation of Vertical Greening Systems (VGS) remains limited. One major barrier is the construction and maintenance costs. Additionally, there is a perception that implementing VGS is a way of “greenwashing”, which deters investment. The latter is linked to the fact that the environmental and health benefits of VGS are difficult to predict and economically quantify due to a lack of input data from continuous monitoring. A wider rollout of VGS can be accomplished by giving users and facility managers the confidence that VGS are indeed beneficial and sustainable, and by convincing people that maintenance does not have to be expensive if adequate supervision ensures timely interventions. In this respect, proper characterization and health monitoring of the canopy is of key importance for the long-term success of VGS and the growth of the VGS sector. To address these challenges, we aim to develop dedicated monitoring techniques for VGS, serving two purposes: (1) optimising the operation and health of Living Wall Systems and climbing plants in containers and (2) enabling calculated performance estimates for all VGS through enabling collection of missing input data on vegetation characteristics. This is achieved through a comprehensive comparative study of monitoring techniques for VGS applications via practical case studies. Our objective is to identify the most effective monitoring methods for each VGS type, drawing insights from both the field of façade greenery and related areas. This approach will support VGS maintenance and accurate benefit assessments, but it will also enhance the credibility of VGS, reduce operational costs, and attract investors and policy makers. Ultimately, dedicated monitoring will transform VGS into more robust and resilient nature-based solutions, promoting sustainable cities.