Columbia’s commitment to building green and clean construction involves the incorporation of renewable materials and designs in an energy-efficient and sustainable way. Columbia has become involved in the Green Roofs initiative, which aims to contribute to the creation of sustainable environments. Green roofs provide partial solutions to several environmental problems that are common in urban locations, including storm-water management, the reduction of pollution and improved air quality. Making a roof green can also reduce costs on energy and roof upkeep, as well as insulate and protect buildings. Grass and plants growing on green roofs take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and turn it into oxygen, helping to cool temperatures in the hottest months and clean the air supply.