Concrete is one of the most harmful construction materials on the planet when it comes to measuring its environmental impact. The process by which concrete is made releases tons of CO2 into the atmosphere and accounts for about 8% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions while consuming nearly 3% of its energy supply.
However, since concrete is unlikely to be phased completely out of use anytime soon, we can reduce the amount we use wherever possible. One of the ways to lower our concrete carbon footprint is by using alternative paving materials. There are plenty of options with a lower carbon footprint than concrete that work just as well for paving surfaces.
If you’re looking to lay new pavement down for any reason, let’s take a look at some much healthier options that will work just as good, if not better than concrete.
1. Porous Asphalt
Porous asphalt is more environmentally-friendly than concrete for a number of reasons. First, it produces much less runoff, which lessens the burden on local storm systems. It also requires much less energy to make and puts less carbon dioxide in the air. It also doesn’t require as much maintenance as concrete if it’s properly maintained.
Although porous asphalt isn’t entirely permeable, it does allow enough stormwater to pass through it that it lessens the need for additional drainage systems and storage basins.
Porous asphalt is able to handle most general traffic, but is weak and doesn’t whereas well as traditional asphalt. Alos, to stay pervious it needs frequent cleaning or power washing. It is a viable option to be considered a choice for residential homeowners in need of a new driveway to commercial business owners looking to install a parking lot.
2. Grid-Supported Grass
Grid-supported grass is one of the environmentally-friendly pavement options available. There are many types of grids designed to stabilize and support grass for handling light to moderate traffic. The most eco-friendly version of these is plastic.
Recycled plastic grids can be laid down over the top of grass, allowing the grass to grow up and through the holes in the grids. These grids have a tiny carbon footprint as they’re produced with recycled materials.
They are also almost entirely permeable and allow for the natural flow of water directly through them and into the soil below. They are not suitable for heavy, repeated traffic from industrial vehicles, but they work perfectly well for commercial and residential usage.
You can also use them to turn grass areas into parking spaces without having to obtain any permits, as you would with porous asphalt, concrete, or any other material that requires excavation.