Energy Performance of Green Facades: The Case Study of Parma University Campus

Green facades have become an important element in our urban scenario. Thanks to the benefits they bring in terms of the environment and aesthetics, they can be a valid solution to counteract the effects related to urbaniza- tion and climate change. Using vegetation on the façade provides natural insulation, reducing summer heat absorp- tion, and keeping interiors cooler for better well-being. This research aims to demonstrate how green facades can affect nearby air temperature and air quality, with a valuable effect on human thermal comfort perception, and assess how this system responds to overheating due to climate change. This work analyzes the case study of the Engineering Headquarters at the University of Parma, where seismic and environmental improvement works are in progress through the adoption of biocli- matic technologies, including the construction of a green facade. The first phase consists of gathering information about the case study building technologies, followed by an overview of the main types of green facades, empha- sizing those supporting climbing plants. Then, the role of the green system in mitigating the heat island effect is assessed, along with thermal comfort perception via the UTCI index. Simulations conducted with ENVI-met assess pre and post-implementation scenarios, showcasing the measurable benefits of green facades.