Flood Reduction
The first key benefit is that permeable pavement helps maintain the natural water cycle. With traditional impervious pavement such as concrete and especially asphalt (aka tar) surfaces, rainwater runs across the surface and it creates problems. For example, an increased risk of basement flooding and stormwater pollution. On the flip side, permeable pavement is a porous surface that eliminates surface run-off by allowing stormwater to ‘be absorbed’ through the surface and then infiltrate back into the soil below. To achieve this, DreamPave installs a 12″ permeable sub-base that allows water to drain below the surface and back into the soil.
Groundwater Protection
Permeable surfaces help to protect groundwater, our primary source of drinking water. An enormous amount of water per second can be drained using the Permeable Pavement resin-bound surface that we installed. So, it plays a major role in flood reduction. Plus, with permeable pavement, puddles are a thing of the past – the surface dries within minutes! The amount of available groundwater has been severely reduced over time, partly due to impermeable surfaces used in urban and suburban construction. Impermeable surfaces prevent rain and snow from replenishing groundwater.
Additionally, as runoff water cannot penetrate concrete and asphalt, it is diverted into storm sewage systems, streams, and, finally, local bodies of water. Runoff water from pavement picks up toxic substances like car oil or pesticide chemicals and dumps them into surrounding bodies of water. As a result, our drinking water supply becomes polluted over time. This can be addressed by installing permeable pavement. For instance, DreamPave’s permeability allows for sustainable rainwater management. Rainwater seeps away naturally and, as a result, contributes to groundwater reserves.
What Makes Permeable Pavement More Eco-Friendly?
At DreamPave, we take great pride in offering a permeable pavement solution that not only provides a durable and reliable surface but also prioritizes environmental sustainability. Our commitment to eco-friendliness extends across every aspect of our product, from the materials we use to the benefits it provides for the environment. Let’s explore in greater detail what makes DreamPave the most environmentally conscious choice for your surfacing needs.
Prevents Flooding and Stormwater Pollution
One of the most significant environmental benefits of DreamPave is its ability to prevent flooding and reduce stormwater pollution. Traditional pavement materials create impermeable surfaces that contribute to stormwater runoff, leading to overwhelmed drainage systems and increased pollution in waterways. However, DreamPave’s porous design allows water to penetrate the surface and seep into the underlying soil, effectively managing stormwater and reducing the risk of flooding. By diverting water away from sewers and filtration systems, DreamPave helps maintain the integrity of local waterways and ecosystems, promoting cleaner and healthier environments for communities.
Replenishes Aquifers
In addition to managing stormwater, DreamPave also plays a crucial role in replenishing aquifers and maintaining groundwater levels. The permeable nature of DreamPave allows water to percolate through the surface and into the ground below, where it can recharge aquifers and support surrounding vegetation. This natural infiltration process helps sustain ecosystems by providing essential hydration for plants and wildlife. By mimicking the natural water cycle, DreamPave contributes to the overall health and resilience of the environment, fostering sustainable landscapes for generations to come.
Low-Impact Development (LID)
As a low-impact development strategy, DreamPave offers a sustainable alternative to traditional stormwater management practices. By reducing runoff and minimizing the need for costly drainage infrastructure, DreamPave helps developers create more resilient and environmentally friendly landscapes. With its ability to mitigate flooding and control stormwater pollution, DreamPave promotes responsible land use and conservation, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious projects and developments.
Eco-Friendly Winter Maintenance
In regions with cold climates and snowfall, DreamPave’s eco-friendly properties extend to winter maintenance practices. The permeable surface of DreamPave promotes faster snowmelt, reducing the need for de-icing chemicals such as salt. By accelerating the melting process, DreamPave helps minimize the environmental impact of winter maintenance activities, such as salt runoff and contamination of waterways. This environmentally conscious approach to winter maintenance ensures safer and more sustainable outcomes for communities and ecosystems alike.
100% Natural Canadian Granite
At DreamPave, sustainability begins with the materials we use. Our permeable pavement is crafted from 100% natural Canadian granite sourced from recycled countertops and other granite products. By repurposing this by-product into a durable pavement material, DreamPave reduces waste and minimizes its environmental footprint. Additionally, the use of locally sourced materials supports regional economies and reduces the carbon emissions associated with transportation.
Low Carbon Footprint
DreamPave’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by its low carbon footprint. Our Earth Conscious Surfacing™ utilizes recycled plastic and plant-based resin, resulting in zero volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions. With an on-site mixing and pouring process, DreamPave minimizes the need for manufacturing plants and hauling trucks, further reducing its carbon footprint. Independent testing by the University of Ottawa confirms DreamPave’s durability, with a lifespan rating of 40+ years in Canada’s challenging climate.
Conclusion
From preventing flooding and stormwater pollution to replenishing aquifers and reducing winter maintenance impacts, DreamPave stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship in the pavement industry. With its sustainable materials, low carbon footprint, and long-lasting durability, DreamPave offers a compelling choice for environmentally conscious consumers and developers alike. Choose DreamPave for a greener, more sustainable future, where eco-friendly pavement solutions pave the way to a brighter tomorrow.
