When you’re thinking about what material to choose for a residential driveway or commercial parking lot, environmental friendliness is a major factor to consider. As well as being durable and affordable, asphalt paving is kind to the environment. Here’s how using asphalt contributes to a sustainable future. 

Why Is Asphalt Eco-Friendly?

1. Uses Recycled Materials 

The asphalt industry leads the way for recycling in the United States. Almost 100 million tons of the material is reused and recycled every year, and asphalt paving often includes other recycled products like glass or rubber. The term “Perpetual Pavement” is used to describe an asphalt construction that lasts for a very long time, and only the top layer has to be replaced. Because road surfaces can be replaced quickly, traffic keeps moving, which reduces vehicle emissions. 

2. Improves Water Quality 

Asphalt paving is porous, which helps with water management. It means that stormwater is released back into the ground slowly instead of running off into storm drains, which causes wastage and may make the drains overflow. Porous asphalt paving also reduces the amount of standing water, meaning there is less chance of ice on your driveway or parking lot in the winter.

3. Lowers Greenhouse Emissions 

Asphalt plants produce very low emissions, such as greenhouse gases. Emissions have been cut by 97% since 1970, even though asphalt production has increased significantly. Unlike many industrial plants, the EPA does not consider asphalt plants to be major sources of pollution. 

4. Prevents Urban Heat Islands

Urban heat island is a term used to describe a city where the temperature is higher than the surrounding suburbs because there is more activity happening in the city. Urban heat islands make cities uncomfortable for residents, which means that extra energy use is needed to keep cool. Asphalt can be used as a ‘cool pavement’ material to combat this problem. Cool pavement surfaces reflect sunlight, whereas conventional pavements absorb heat and contribute to the urban heat island effect. 

To ensure your driveway or parking lot is environmentally friendly, have asphalt paving installed by Quality Asphalt & Seal Coating in Thomasville, NC. The locally owned and operated business has served the area for 25 years, and they take on jobs of any size for residential and commercial clients. Call (336) 476-9384 to arrange a free estimate or visit them online to learn more.