Zájem o dotace na zelené střechy je v Brně velký translates to The interest in subsidies for green roofs in Brno is large

Brno – The interest in subsidies for green roofs in Brno is large. This year, due to the coronavirus, the city has extended the possibility of submitting applications for funding, and has not yet set a binding deadline for when applications can be submitted. The money can be used for creating a green roof on family and apartment buildings. Applicants can, like last year, take advantage of a total of 20 million crowns. The deadline for submitting applications was originally supposed to expire at the end of the summer holidays, said Radka Loukotová from the press department of the municipality.

People can also utilize a similar program for rainwater retention. Both programs are part of the initiative "Prepare Brno," through which the city aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030.

Brno residents could apply for a subsidy for a green roof for the first time last year. "The council granted over 100 commitments for subsidies, and 22 projects were completed in the same year," Loukotová said. Applicants have 18 months from the commitment for construction. "Interest is still very high this year; so far, 19 commitments for three million crowns have been granted, even though the pace of applications slowed in the spring. The city wants to meet the interest of applicants, so it will extend the deadline for submitting applications this year. Information about the new deadline will appear on the page ekodotace.brno.cz," Loukotová stated.

She added that the greatest interest is in the extensive type of roof with succulent carpets. This type of green roof consists of resilient vegetation requiring minimal maintenance. The "Catch the Rainwater" program is also sought after, which aims to motivate better water management in Brno.

Environmental subsidy programs also have a place in other South Moravian towns. "Every year, an amount of at least four million crowns is allocated, from which we provide subsidies for solar systems for heating both heating and utility water," said Petra Kotásková, spokesperson for the Hodonín city office.

In Blansko, ecological aspects are taken into account in the city's investments. "In July, the reconstruction of the kitchen and dining hall at the largest school in Blansko will begin, which will include a green roof," said the spokesperson of the local city office, Pavla Komárková. Vyškov and Břeclav do not have similar programs.