The modern definition of a sustainable material is one that does not have an adverse effect on critical ecologies or the greater environment despite being produced in large quantities from renewable resources. Asphalt meets all of the requirements for a sustainable material.

Each year, approximately 100 million tons of asphalt is reclaimed, with more than 95 percent used to make new asphalt paving. This makes asphalt pavement the most recycled item in the nation. In addition, recycled asphalt routinely includes other materials, such as tires, shingles, slag and glass, that might otherwise end up in landfills.

Over the last four decades, asphalt paving material production has increased 250 percent, but emissions from plants producing asphalt pavement have decreased by at least 97 percent. Greenhouse gases and other emissions, combined with the low energy demands of asphalt production, have led the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to state that asphalt plants are not among the industries that the agency considers to be major contributors to hazardous pollutants.

Another major concern of the EPA is the affect materials have on water quality. Asphalt is not water-soluble. In fact, some state fish and game agencies use asphalt to line their hatchery tanks, and some municipalities use it to line water reservoirs supplying the city’s drinking water. Asphalt is also considered “clean fill” as it does not leach any toxic chemicals in a landfill.

Asphalt Pavement Solutions has been supplying customers throughout Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania with a wide range of asphalt pavement services since 1983. Whether you need a parking lot sealcoated or striped, have major potholes or cracks that must be repaired, or need to install car stops, our experienced professionals are ready to help. We also repair drain inlets and concrete. You can request a free quote on our website or call us at 800.559.SEAL for more information on the many ways we can help you.

Learn more about our asphalt paving services.