THE CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES

San Francisco, California

The Academy’s overall mission is to explore, explain, and sustain life. Through the installment of 2.5 acres of planted material, it is doing just that. The seven signature domes were created to evoke San Francisco’s topography and create unique microclimates which, in turn, influence plant establishment and promote diversity. The extensive green roof encompasses nine native plant species that attract pollinating creatures like bumblebees and hummingbirds. The pollinator diversity is also increased by having seasonal variation in flower color and bloom. The green roof absorbs 98% of all storm water and creates insulation for the building. The roof also has an outdoor laboratory where scientists and students can learn and study nature in real time.