European Federation of Green Roof and Green Wall Associations (EFB)

The European Federation of Green Roof and Green Wall Associations (EFB) brings together national associations for green roofs and living walls across Europe. It was established in 1997 as the European Federation of Green Roof and Living Wall Associations by the green roof associations of Austria, Germany and Switzerland. By 2026 it had 20 member associations. Its office team is based in Austria, and its website is efb-greenroof.eu.

Members

After the three founders, associations joined from countries and regions including the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Scandinavia, Hungary, Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, Portugal, England, Spain and Romania.

Aims and activities

The federation's shared goal is to make cities more resilient, healthy and attractive by putting vegetation on roofs, walls and facades, complementing other nature-based solutions in urban areas. Its activities include:

• EUGIC conference. The EFB is behind the European Urban Green Infrastructure Conference (EUGIC), first held in Vienna in 2015, followed by Budapest (2017), London (2019) and Berlin (2023).
• EU research. Green roof and wall technology has been included in EU research programmes such as Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe, with EFB working groups engaging with the European Commission.
• Publications, webinars, seminars and training for members and the public.
• Market research. It is preparing a market report on the European building greening industry.

European context

Green roofs have a long history in Europe, from traditional sod roofs in Scandinavia and Iceland to modern extensive roofs in German-speaking countries, where many cities require or subsidise green roofs on flat roofs. Technical practice in much of Europe draws on the German FLL green roof guidelines, alongside national standards. Typical extensive systems are lightweight and planted with sedum and other drought-tolerant species, while intensive systems create usable roof gardens.

Related bodies

In North America, Green Roofs for Healthy Cities plays a similar role. National associations in member countries handle local training, certification and policy work.