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Politicians and government employees like to flaunt their commitment to environmental issues, but when it comes down to it, how many of them are willing to spend their own money to support the cause?

Jenny Bloom, of Parkwood Estates in West Ashley, is part of a select group of people who are willing to put their money where their mouths are.

As the Charleston County Recycling Educator & Community Representative, Bloom has spearheaded green programs throughout the region and has dedicated herself to environmental issues.

To those who know her, it should come as no surprise that Jenny recently became the first person to install a green roof in West Ashley and one of the first South Carolina residents to do so on their home.

She is on the forefront of a growing industry in the U.S. where building owners are looking at their rooftops in a whole new light.

"Sustainability is important to me," explains Bloom. "Green roofs are logical, effective and a great fit for my thrifty, but upstream, mindset towards home design."

A green roof is a configuration of plants, soil and drainage layers which are placed on a roof surface.

Forget green dye or paint. This is a colorful blend of hardy, drought-tolerant plants which transforms your impervious roof into a lush garden landscape. The vegetated cover acts as an additional layer of insulation and reduces energy costs, extends the roof life and absorbs stormwater runoff. Municipalities like them because they act as a stormwater management tool. Savvy building owners like them because they can help offset rising energy costs.

"There is a tremendous problem across buildings and properties in the Lowcountry as it relates to wasted energy costs," said Mike McKenna, partner at Green Roof Outfitters. "A quality vegetated roof system will provide a sustainable, cost-effective solution."

The green movement has taken shape across the Lowcountry and Mayors Joe Riley and Keith Summey have been instrumental in creating some of the premier programs in the country. Through their efforts and the efforts of citizens like Jenny Bloom, they will be able to protect the natural resources we cherish here in South Carolina. These programs offer numerous environmental benefits including the preservation of our wetlands, beaches and rivers, but many of them also lead to long term cost savings.

While Jenny is setting an excellent example by putting her money where her mouth is, she can also expect to see a little payback the next time she gets her SCE&G bill.