Asphalt Goes Green!

As summer and its corresponding construction projects are nearing an end, we are noticing – and appreciating – the improvements recently made on the roads, highways, and bridges we drive on every day.

Perhaps most notable are the roads that were repaired and likely re-paved in the recent summer months.  They provide us with a smoother ride and one with fewer bumps and potholes, not to mention a better alignment on our cars! But aside from the luxury of a fresh, new, smooth, safe, paved road, is the peace of mind of knowing that the asphalt used most often today – and what was used this past summer in the tens of thousands of paving projects that were completed across the U.S. – is “greener” than its ever been before!

Recent surveys and research conducted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA) reveal that Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP), Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS), and Warm-Mix Asphalt Technology (WMA) are all more environmentally-friendly than ever before.  In fact, with the increased use of the above-named asphalt types – RAP, RAS, and WMA – we can prevent over 1 million tons of CO² emissions from being released.

What’s more is that the green asphalt not only makes less of a negative impact on the earth, it makes less of a hole in our wallets, too!  Utilizing the recycling and warm-mix saves state DOTs and other public agencies a huge amount of money every year; also saved are precious natural resources.  Ultimately, the increased use of these materials provides workers with a safer, better, more comfortable workplace, and produces higher-quality, longer-lasting pavements at a much lower cost – all while simultaneously making a smaller impact on our planet.  Conclusively, we can all benefit from the use of green technologies.

Keep Tracey Road Equipment in mind for all of your paving and asphalt needs – we have all of the equipment, for sale or rent, to put this green asphalt to use!