Environmental Considerations in Asphalt Paving Projects in Florida

With the current state of our planet, everyone should be making a conscious effort to protect the environment. Even when your driveway is paved, you need to understand the environmental impacts of an asphalt paving project. Going green might be among the most overused words today, but its principle remains as relevant as ever.

First, you must understand that construction activities, including asphalt paving, can negatively affect the environment. For example, when heated to high temperatures, a hot asphalt mix emits greenhouse gas. Thus, preventive maintenance of your pavement should be your primary goal. This way, you can lessen the need for major repairs that could significantly impact the planet. On the flipside, if it is time for new pavement hiring a reputable, expert-level asphalt paving company will ensure your money isn’t going to waste with a surface that wont last and help minimize your lifelong environmental footprint that would possibly otherwise cause you to get the job done twice or even thrice.

Here are other factors that you need to consider when it comes to any of your asphalt paving projects:

Stormwater Management

One factor to consider in your asphalt paving is properly managing stormwater. As a best practice, it is recommended that you implement best management practices like bioswales, installing retention ponds, or having permeable pavement. This is done to catch and filter stormwater runoff and lessen water pollution in the area. 

Preserve Natural Habitats

Before starting a paving project, do site preparation and check for any protected natural habitats that can get affected. As a rule of thumb, areas with significant ecological value, such as wetlands, should be preserved and remain undisturbed. However, if you think there will be an unavoidable impact, consult with the environmental agencies in your area to minimize damage or disruptions.

Erosion Control

Construction can cause soil erosion. Thus, if you’re ever planning an asphalt paving project, take precautions and use sediment barriers, silt fences, and erosion control blankets. These will help stabilize the soil foundation and minimize erosion risk during and after the project. 

Proper Material Sourcing

Sourcing materials for your asphalt paving can have an environmental impact. You can reduce this impact by opting to buy from local suppliers. Doing so will help reduce transmissions from transporting the materials from out of town or state. You can also try using recycled asphalt pavement to minimize the need for extracting new aggregate. That’s one way to conserve natural resources.

Recycling and Waste Management

Preparing a waste management plan so you can adequately handle any waste you accumulate before and after paving. You can segregate and recycle excess asphalt, concrete, and other materials. You also need a plan to properly dispose of hazardous substances so they don’t contaminate the soil and water in your area.

Manage Noise and Air Quality

Asphalt paving will generate some level of noise and air pollution. But, you can implement some measures to lessen noise impacts in your neighborhood. You can use noise barriers and schedule the work during less sensitive hours. You can spray water on surfaces or use dust suppressants to control dust.

Energy Consumption

We all know energy is finite, so we must be conscious when using it. You can use energy-efficient equipment and tools to reduce your emissions and fuel consumption for your asphalt paving project. If you’re a contractor, do regular tune-ups and proper maintenance to ensure optimum performance. 

Conclusion

Following the above considerations in your asphalt paving project can help preserve and protect the natural environment. And if you’re looking for an asphalt paving company that offers professional and high-quality service, you can always contact Anderson & Sons. 

Our team believes in sustainability through service life. Thus, when we work on your pavement, you can expect long-lasting asphalt surfaces. And you know what that means? You don’t have to frequently replace or repair your asphalt, thus, lessening your environmental impact. We also ensure that we follow strict safety standards and comply with regulations in the area.