Survey Results and Experts’ Opinions on Integrating Vertical Greening Systems into Historic Buildings

Vertical Greening Systems (VGS) offer both advantages and challenges when integrated into built heritage properties for urban sustainability and preservation purposes. VGS can provide environmental benefits by reducing surface temperatures, improving air quality, and supporting biodiversity. Additionally, they can enhance community engagement and foster a sense of identity within a place. However, their integration into historic buildings raises concerns, particularly because climbing plants can attach themselves to walls and cause issues such as bio-colonization and mold formation. Beyond environmental impacts, VGS also influence cultural perception, social engagement, and economic feasibility, making their implementation a multi-dimensional issue.

This study addresses these concerns and benefits by exploring expert perspectives on the implementation of VGS in historic buildings, focusing on various factors, including environmental, cultural, social, economic, legal, and technical aspects. The research combines insights from a literature review with survey data collected from 83 experts in VGS and heritage conservation globally. Both open-ended and closed-ended responses were analyzed to identify variations in expert opinions.

The findings reveal a general recognition of the environmental benefits of VGS; however, significant technical and cultural concerns are still perceived as obstacles to widespread adoption. The results highlight the need for increased awareness and structured information for stakeholders to promote the advantages of VGS while addressing the challenges associated with historic architecture.