Ideal Bite

What's the earth under the concrete saying?

03.19.2007

Submitted by idealbite on Mon, 03/19/2007 - 2:01am.

The Bite:

"So, so... thirsty..." {insert raspy voice here} Choose cool-looking alt pavement, which lets rainwater drain into the earth like it's supposed to, instead of running off to storm sewers (picking up pollutants and causing erosion along the way).

The Benefits:

Better for the earth. Paving stones, rather than laid concrete, let water drain naturally into the ground, reducing flood risks.
Cleaner waterways. Water flowing to waterways picks up junk like motor oil as it goes (part of why about 40% of US lakes and rivers aren't safe for fishing or swimming).
Some pavers are made from recycled materials and reflect light, so your pavement stays cool in the heat.
Increase your home's value. Following this tip can help increase your home's green LEED credits.

Personally Speaking:

Heather volunteered for Earth Pledge for a year, during which time she became way too familiar with the different permeable pavement options. As soon as she buys her own home it's gonna be salvaged cobblestones all the way.

Wanna Try:

Locally sourced stone/reclaimed concrete pavers are best for the planet, requiring less transport energy to get to your yard. Prices depend on amount bought and region:

Gavin Historical Bricks - salvaged antique cobblestones and pavers - place them without concrete for best flow-through.
Biopaver - great concrete alternative: interlocking pavers with room for plants to grow.
NaturalPAVE XL - great-looking resin-based pavement.
TerraPave - resin-based asphalt alternative, with a binder made from trees from sustainable forests.
Earth911 - enter your zip to see where to recycle the concrete removed to put in new pavers (which helps decrease the need for gravel mining).