COSTA MESA, Calif. — Green Roofs for Healthy Cities will hold its SoCal Grey to Green Conference in Costa Mesa on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026, bringing together regional professionals to discuss green infrastructure strategies.
The event is scheduled to take place at the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project facility, located at 3535 Harbor Blvd., Suite 110. Running from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the gathering will assemble architects, landscape architects, researchers, policymakers, and green infrastructure practitioners.
According to conference details, the regional event aims to address environmental conditions facing Southern California, including rising temperatures, prolonged drought, water scarcity, and severe rainfall events. Industry participants will examine how specific green infrastructure options — such as green roofs, living walls, permeable landscapes, and urban tree canopies — can assist communities in managing stormwater runoff, lowering urban temperatures, conserving water supplies, supporting local biodiversity, and enhancing urban livability.
The single-day program will feature expert presentations, panel discussions, and real-world case studies centered on green infrastructure design, climate resilience, and urban biodiversity practices. Attendees will also have dedicated opportunities to network with other professionals working across the region.
Registration for the event is set at $39 and covers the cost of lunch. Organizers noted that free on-site parking will be available for attendees at the Harbor Boulevard venue.
For professionals seeking professional development, the conference has been submitted for Health, Safety, and Welfare continuing education credits through the American Institute of Architects and the American Society of Landscape Architects. Credits earned during the sessions may also be applied toward Green Roof Professional and Green Roof Installation and Maintenance Professional certifications.
The hosting organization, Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, is a non-profit 501(c)(6) professional industry association that has worked to expand the green roof and wall sector across North America since 1999. The association states its mission focuses on developing and protecting the market by raising awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits associated with living architecture through education, advocacy, professional development, and industry awards.
As part of its operations, the association publishes The Living Architecture Monitor, a quarterly online magazine featuring insights from industry leaders regarding living architecture projects. Additionally, the group operates The Living Architecture Academy, an online platform providing professional training on design, installation, and maintenance across various green infrastructure topics. Courses offered through the academy include Green Roof Professional Training, Introduction to Green Walls, and Biodiverse Green Roof Maintenance.
The association also maintains the Green Pages directory, a resource listing certified professionals, manufacturers, nurseries, and accessory suppliers to support both residential and commercial living architecture projects.
