Vegetation planted over a waterproofing membrane, to be installed this year, will completely cover the roof of the civic centre.

The vegetation roof is one of the first in Victoria and two tertiary institutions will study its environmental benefits for 12 months.

Experts predict that, if the study is successful, plant-topped structures could become a common feature of Australian landscapes.

Melbourne University will assess whether green roofs could benefit other urban Melbourne buildings.

It will also examine benefits for bird and wildlife habitat, amelioration of the urban heat island effect, property insulation and improved building performance.

Monash University will test the quality of stormwater discharging from the roof and measure the reduction in roof rainwater run off.

A Melbourne Water spokesman said stormwater runoff from suburban streets and gutters was the No.1 polluter of Melbourne's waterways because of what it picked up and carried into rivers and creeks.

"Green roofs offer great potential for improving stormwater management and the protection of our waterways."

Melbourne Water has provided $80,000 to install the green roof and $60,000 for research into the effects on water quality.

Monash Mayor Charlotte Baines said the project was an "innovative way to look for local solutions to global issues of climate change".

"Now is the time to embrace new ideas and initiatives and to learn from international examples."

Melbourne Water's senior stormwater quality planner, Marion Urrutiaguer, said green roofs absorbed a lot of water that was later returned to the environment through evaporation instead of rushing through creeks.

"Melbourne Water is really interested in stormwater management benefits.

"We think it will improve the quality of the run off."

Monash University water group civil engineering lecturer Dr Edoardo Daly said green roofs were likely to become more common in Australia after the Monash study was completed.

Other environmental initiatives by the council include the Monash World Environment Day awards, which

recognise the contributions of individuals, households, community groups, schools and businesses that do their bit for the environment.

People who work or live in Monash have until March 31 to nominate themselves or other residents for the awards, which have cash prizes of up to $3000 each

Details: Click here.