Did you know that the asphalt industry recycles more than 60 million tons of asphalt a year? Asphalt is the most recycled product in the US. Unlike concrete which can only be re-purposed asphalt is 100% renewable and is the most sustainable material for building pavements. Another fun fact, materials such as rubber from used tires, glass and asphalt roofing shingles are often recycled into asphalt pavements. The production and recycling process of asphalt has minimal impact on the environment every step of the way from the production of the asphalt to the actual placement of the pavement on the road.
Low consumption of energy.
For starters, asphalt pavements require about 20 percent less energy to produce and construct than other pavements. this is part due to the speed at which asphalt pavements can be built and rehabilitated. Asphalt pavement can be opened to traffic as soon as it has been compacted and cooled. As for energy consumed from vehicles, since asphalt is a smooth surface vehicles are able to use less fuel and produce less emissions.
Low emission of greenhouse gases
Emissions from asphalt plants are very low, and in fact the EPA considers the asphalt industry only a minor source of industrial air pollution. The combination of reducing emissions from vehicles and the amount of greenhouse gases produced could potentially have a positive impact on global climate change.
Conservation of natural resources
Porous asphalt pavements allow for land development plans that are ore thoughtful, harmonious with natural processes, and overall more sustainable. They conserve water, reduce runoff, promote infiltration which cleanses storm water, replenishes aquifers, and protect streams.
With all of those factors considered, it’s no question that asphalt pavement is the answer. Start working to be sustainable with us at Sunrise Asphalt.
