Green roof as flood mitigation in Ghana

Kevin Kerry Yankey, Emmanuel Kwesi Nyantakyi (), Amos T. Kabo-bah, Martin Kyereh Domfeh, Prince Antwi-Agyei, Robert Andoh, Nana Osei Bonsu Ackerson, Saeed Ibn Idris Kofi Yeboah, Anna Minkah-Amankwah and Thomas Atta-Darkwa
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Kevin Kerry Yankey: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Emmanuel Kwesi Nyantakyi: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Amos T. Kabo-bah: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Martin Kyereh Domfeh: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Prince Antwi-Agyei: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Robert Andoh: AWD Consult Inc
Nana Osei Bonsu Ackerson: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Saeed Ibn Idris Kofi Yeboah: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Anna Minkah-Amankwah: University of Energy and Natural Resources
Thomas Atta-Darkwa: University of Energy and Natural Resources

Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, 2025, vol. 121, issue 13, No 1, 15069-15090

Abstract: Abstract Rapid urbanization in cities has increased impervious ground cover, leading to greater flood risks due to reduced natural infiltration. Sunyani Municipality in Ghana, once known as the cleanest city in the country, is currently grappling with challenges related to improper city planning and development, resulting in unprecedented flooding. The conversion of green spaces into impermeable surfaces has exacerbated these flood hazards. Despite governmental efforts to address the issue through various stormwater management strategies and interventions, such as drainage systems and solid waste management, flooding remains a persistent challenge. However, Green/vegetative roofs represent sustainable solutions that offer multiple benefits, including stormwater management and potential flood mitigation. Despite these benefits, it is largely unexplored in Sunyani City. This study explores the implementation of green roofs as viable stormwater mitigation controls for the city in response to runoff and flood threats. The study employed a green roof potential assessment method within the Environmental Protection Agency Storm Water Management Model (EPA SWMM). Hydrology and hydraulic parameters were determined and dimensioned before being used to model the situation in Sunyani. The results showed that green roofs can reduce surface runoff from 90% to as low as 40%, while retaining up to 60% of precipitation. These findings affirm the viability of green roofs as effective urban flood mitigation tools, offering co-benefits such as urban cooling and water reuse. The study provides practical recommendations for integrating green roofs into local planning policies, encouraging uptake among stakeholders and supporting climate resilience goals.

Keywords: Green roof; Urbanization; Flood; Sunyani; EPA SWMM (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11069-025-07389-8

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