New Columbia Green roofs sip water

Advanced Vegetative Roof System (AVRS), a patent-pending new green roof system, is being introduced by Columbia Green Technologies, Inc. The water-efficient system incorporates patented Zeba-branded moisture release technology for faster, fuller vegetation establishment and lower maintenance costs.

Green roofing for environmental benefits has been a staple in European building for more than 20 years, but has only recently been introduced into North America. One stumbling block to acceptance in the U.S. is the additional costs for construction and ongoing operating expense of roof-level irrigation systems.

"With AVRS, we can keep the soil moist and reduce the need for irrigation systems by using Zeba starch-based superabsorbent in our soil mix," said Mark Carpenter, President and CEO of Columbia. "In our research and commercial installations, we find Zeba gives us faster and more complete stand establishment in the critical first year, using far less water. The Zeba technology is the best we've found, so it's a key component in all our installations."

Zeba's patented, cornstarch-based granules work like a sponge, holding and releasing water as the plant roots need it. Although synthetic polymers (polyacrylamides or PAMs) have been available for years, Zeba's superior moisture holding and release capabilities create higher quality plants and greater yields in demanding, worldwide agriculture, the company said.

"When Columbia first approached us, they were seeking a solution that was not only cost efficient, but also enhanced the environmental benefits and message inherent in green roofing," said Larry Logan, Chief Marketing Officer for the Zeba brand. "What set us apart from all other superabsorbents is that Zeba is formulated from cornstarch grown here in the U.S. and is completely biodegradable and non-toxic."

The AVRS solution is targeted to architects, landscape designers, city planners, and building developers and owners. In addition to aesthetics, benefits are year-round energy savings, improved stormwater management, increased air quality, reduction in urban heat-island effect, and noise reduction in buildings.

AVRS's patent-pending solution uses lightweight, double-interlocking trays for easy and rapid assembly. A wide variety of low-maintenance, weather-resistant succulent plants are utilized, along with the pre-blended high-performance soil mix which includes Zeba.

Columbia Green Technologies and the parent of the Zeba brand, Absorbent Technologies, Inc., have entered into an agreement which allows Columbia to use the Zeba brand in its advertising and marketing materials.

For more information:

www.columbiagreenroof.com

www.zeba.com