Grand Valley has made efforts to decrease impermeable surfaces on its campuses with green roofs. A green roof is a specially designed rooftop covered with living plants that helps the university manage storm water, protect local ecosystems, and advance its sustainability goals. The plants absorb rainwater and release it back into the atmosphere or use it themselves, which can reduce storm water runoff by up to 90% — a major benefit for GVSU’s ravine system and nearby Grand River watershed.