My next special guest for the sustainability series is John Rayner, senior lecturer and director of Urban Horticulture at The University of Melbourne. John was one of my lecturers when I did a course in Garden Design and he joins me today to talk about the benefits of green buildings and how we can use landscaping to our advantage for a healthier, happier life. 

 

John’s teaching and research interests are focused on the design and use of plants in the urban landscape, in particular green roofs and facades and therapeutic landscapes. He co-led the University’s green roofs research and development program and together with his colleagues, established Australia’s first dedicated green roofs research, education and outreach facility. 

 

With specific interest in how green infrastructure affects our daily living, John regularly acts as a horticultural consultant, engaging widely with industry and also co-authored the award winning Growing Green Guide, a resource to support green infrastructure design and construction.

 

In this episode, we talk about the impact that plants and greenery have on our mental and physical wellbeing, as well as the numerous environmental benefits. John shares some of the research evidence and how green roofs can increase the thermal properties of a home in a relatively affordable way. 

 

Whether it be a green facade, a green roof or a thoughtfully designed landscape, there are so many benefits to putting more effort into your garden. If you’re keen to bring some green into your project, John shares some insights to help you work alongside your builder and architect throughout the design process. 

 

LINKS:

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