Asphalt Pavement Should Be Allowed In America

Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the many issues related to the environmental health of the planet. Even 50 years ago, phrases such as sustainable materials, greenhouse gases and carbon footprint would have been rarely found in media reports. In recent decades, much more attention has been given to preventing air pollution and reducing energy consumption as well as using construction materials that are recyclable or renewable. For most people, such terms evoke images of high-mileage vehicles, energy-efficient appliances, alternatives to plastic bottles and recycling bins filled with aluminum cans. However, people often do not realize the environmental benefits that can be provided by asphalt pavement.

(-- removed HTML --) Asphalt Production Is
However, the total for all aluminum, plastic, glass and paper recycled annually is about half as much as the amount of asphalt pavement that is recycled every year. Most of the old pavement is used to produce more asphalt pavement, which reduces the need for fresh asphalt binder as well as aggregates. The recycled asphalt pavement can also incorporate other reclaimed materials, including glass, old tires, asphalt shingles and foundry sand.

(-- removed HTML --) Asphalt Can Help Keep Traffic Moving (-- removed HTML --)
Traffic snarls increase fuel consumption and emissions when drivers are brought to a halt or forced to creep along. Since asphalt pavement is faster to install and repair than concrete pavement, less time is needed to build a new road to alleviate congestion and lanes closed for repairs can be reopened quickly. In addition, because asphalt pavement is remarkably smooth, fuel consumption can be as much as 4.5 percent less for vehicles driving on asphalt as opposed to a rougher pavement.

(-- removed HTML --) Asphalt Pavement Can Help Reduce Urban Heat Islands (-- removed HTML