Across the globe, infrastructure is constantly changing and expanding. Therefore, professionals in the paving business must be able to scale and reimagine asphalt uses frequently. Being environmentally conscious isn’t just an afterthought anymore. It needs to be at the forefront of how asphalt paving contractors work. Eco-friendly asphalt services are attainable if you follow these tips.
How to Be Environmentally Friendly with Pavement
Recycling Old Pavement
One of the best things about using asphalt and paving is that they are easily recycled. In fact, most pavement is a product of recycled paving materials. This has been a common practice in the industry for decades. Your old pavement will not reach its lifespan for decades if your asphalt contractor offers reclamation.
Milling and reclamation is a great way to reuse the pavement you already have. It works by having the top layers of your pavement removed and then taken to a facility to repurpose it. Through a process of pulverizing and grading, the old pavement is new again. Not only is this an excellent option for sustainability, but it is also better for your budget. You won’t have to purchase new materials, saving your wallet and the environment. If you’re laying down new asphalt, you should ask your asphalt installers where they intend to source your materials. Depending on the extent of the work, you may be able to reuse your existing asphalt. You’ll still get that fresh blacktop look but in an environmentally friendly way.
Another Material Option: Porous Pavement
If you’re interested in making your new asphalt as sustainable as possible, there’s another option: porous pavement. According to The Green Building Alliance, “permeable pavement (also known as pervious or porous) is a specific type of pavement with a high porosity that allows rainwater to pass through it into the ground below.” Porous pavement allows for a natural flow of water into the ground. It helps the environment by eliminating runoff, recharging groundwater, trapping pollutants, reducing surface temperatures, and eliminates the need for retention bases. The most eco-conscious asphalt contractors will be able to offer this to you during your estimate. While choosing the suitable material is a big step, it’s also critical that your asphalt contractor knows exactly how to install it. Ask questions about their process and how porous pavement will work for your specific property requirements.
The Clean Up
Putting down the blacktop doesn’t mean the project is done. The proper cleanup process is another way to ensure your project doesn’t harm the environment. Not all asphalt construction sites will have the same debris and materials to dispose of, but those companies with experience will know exactly what to do. Cassidy Paving takes the cleanup of its jobs seriously and works with several companies in the area to ensure that waste is properly disposed of. Additionally, we always recycle when possible as a first step. Your new asphalt doesn’t have to harm the environment in the process.
Green Asphalt Installation
If you need new pavement but not sure how to keep it eco-friendly, give the Cassidy Paving team a call today at 866-978-9788. We offer free estimates and can show you all of the ways your next asphalt laying services can be as sustainable as possible.
