being released into the air. (15) Through natural transpiration, plants on vertical and horizontal surfaces are able to cool cities during hot summer months and reduce the urban heat island effect. (16) Green roofs plants can capture dust and particulate matter throughout cities, as well as the production of smog. This can play a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting urban areas to a future climate with warmer summers. (17) Green roofs improve human health and wellbeing through improvement of local air quality, regulation of temperature, and sequestration of harmful airborne substances, particularly among children and other vulnerable or at-risk communities. (18) Green roofs on public infrastructure provide cost-savings for the life of the project, through defraying future replacement and energy costs. (19) Green roofs contribute to the stabilization of neighborhoods as a result of improved health, scenic qualities, and elevated nearby property valuation. (20) Green roofs provide habitat for wildlife such as pollinators and migratory birds. 3. Grants for planning assistance (a) Grant program authorized The Secretary, taking into account recommendations from the Director of the Weatherization and Intergovernmental Programs Office of the Department of Energy, shall make grants to eligible entities to pay the costs of planning assistance for a green roof system described in subsection (b). (b) Allowable use of funds for grants for planning assistance An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall use the grant for the following purposes: (1) Identification of opportunities to use green roofs. (2) Assessment of vertical structures, or possible vertical structures, to support vegetation and ground-level areas that support vegetation in the same school building. (3) Permitting and siting issues, including potential synergy of the green roof with green roofs, green walls, and rain gardens in neighboring buildings. (4) Business planning and financial analysis. (5) Architectural and