Mississauga Leads Climate Innovation with Canada’s First Smart Blue Roof

MISSISSAUGA – Mississauga is making strides in climate adaptation with the introduction of Canada’s first-ever CSA-compliant smart blue roof. The innovative system, installed at Credit Valley Conservation’s (CVC) administration building on Old Derry Road, aims to address the growing challenge of urban flooding and stormwater management brought on by climate change.

A Climate-Smart Solution

Blue roofs are designed to capture and manage rainwater during heavy storms, reducing the burden on municipal stormwater systems and mitigating flood risks. Unlike conventional sloped roofs that direct rainwater into drainage systems, blue roofs detain water on the roof, where it can be stored, evaporated, or redirected for reuse.

Mississauga’s smart blue roof takes this concept a step further by integrating advanced technology. Sensors, programmable controls, and a network of devices monitor rainfall and water levels, ensuring efficient water storage and management. The system can hold up to 60,000 liters of rainwater and determines optimal usage through real-time data analysis. It may retain water for evaporation to cool the building, harvest it for non-potable use, or gradually release it into the city’s stormwater system under safe conditions.

Early Success and Recognition

Since its launch earlier this year, the smart blue roof has proven its effectiveness in managing heavy rainfall, including two significant storms in July and August. Preliminary data from CVC’s monitoring indicate significant benefits:

• Evaporation: 51% of captured rainwater evaporated, contributing to building cooling.
• Reuse: 42% of rainwater was treated and used for toilet flushing, cutting potable water usage by 75%.
• Stormwater Management: Only 7% was released into municipal systems, reducing strain on infrastructure.

These achievements earned the project a 2025 Clean50 Top Project Award, highlighting its potential as a template for similar initiatives across Canada.

Why Blue Roofs Matter

With Mississauga facing increased rainfall and intense storms due to climate change, blue roofs provide a cost-effective solution to mitigate flood risks while supporting environmental sustainability. Beyond stormwater management, these systems reduce water and cooling costs for property owners and help protect local ecosystems by preventing pollutants and debris from contaminating Lake Ontario.

The City of Mississauga’s Green Development Standard (GDS) encourages such innovations in sustainable development. Blue roofs align with the city’s broader climate goals, providing a scalable solution for urban stormwater management.

Collaboration and Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Mississauga aims to expand the adoption of blue roofs across suitable commercial and residential buildings. Feasibility studies will determine structural compatibility, and additional incentives may encourage widespread implementation.

As Mississauga continues to adapt to evolving weather patterns, the smart blue roof project sets a benchmark for sustainable urban development. By embracing innovation, the city is taking bold steps toward safeguarding its infrastructure, environment, and communities from the impacts of climate change.