Green roofs have been installed on 15 bus shelters around Reading.

These microhabitats aim to increase biodiversity, absorb pollution, and improve air quality.

The living roofs, populated by succulent sedum plants, are now a haven for various birds, insects, and pollinators.

The locations of these green shelters include Caversham Road, Southcote Road, the Milestone Centre, and Warwick Road.

Two new shelters on the A33 at Rose Kiln Lane (North) also feature these eco-friendly roofs, part of the latest phase of the South Reading Bus Rapid Transit scheme.

The sedum plants not only provide a refuge for wildlife but also help to improve urban air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants.

They serve as a source of nectar for bees, increase urban biodiversity, and contribute to a more pleasant environment overall.

The plants can also capture rainfall, keep the air cool by absorbing sunlight, and require minimal maintenance due to their hardy, drought-resistant nature.

Councillor John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, highlighted the multi-faceted benefits of these green shelters.

He said: "Taking the bus reduces the number of polluting cars on the road, Reading’s buses are super low emission, and now even the bus shelters are eco-friendly.

"Travelling by bus is a win, win, win for people and the environment.

"As they travel, bus passengers also benefit from catching a glimpse of these surprise patches of greenery which can attract birds, bees, and butterflies.

"It is the council’s, and the town’s, ambitions for Reading to be a net zero borough, and we have recently seen that our carbon emissions have fallen by 54% since 2005 – the 12th largest reduction in the country.

"The council has major projects under way to further reduce emissions in the future, but these green living roofs are a great example of how relatively small actions can cumulatively make an impact."

The introduction of these green roofs aligns with the council’s broader climate aims to make Reading a net-zero borough.

The council’s efforts have already led to a 54 per cent reduction in carbon emissions since 2005, the 12th largest decrease in the country.

The green roofs are part of a range of measures being implemented to further reduce emissions.

These eco-friendly bus shelters are part of a wider initiative to promote sustainable travel in Reading.

With super low-emission buses and eco-friendly shelters, the council is encouraging residents to use public transport as a more environmentally friendly way to get around.