Eco-Friendly Concrete: Sustainable Solutions for Paterson's Future

1. Pervious Concrete: A Solution for Stormwater Management

Due to its ability to help to control stormwater flow effectively, pervious concrete has grown in popularity in urbanized areas such as Paterson.

How It Works

It contains very little to no sand, which makes for a highly porous product.

This allows for a significant reduction in surface run-off by allowing water to be absorbed into the ground, rather than flowing over the top of the surface.

It also helps to recharge groundwater and assist in preventing flooding.

Where To Use

• Parking lots
• Sidewalks
• Driveways

Eco-Friendly Benefits

• Reduces the urban heat island effect
• Filters out pollutants from stormwater
• Decreases the demand for traditional drainage systems

2. Concrete With Recycled Materials

Using recycled products in concrete mixtures is one of the best ways to decrease waste and save natural resources.

What Are Some Types of Recycled Products That Can Be Used in Concrete?

• Demolition site crushed concrete
• Recycled glass
• Plastic waste

Advantages

• Reduced the amount of waste sent to landfills
• Lower carbon footprint for producing concrete
• Conservation of natural aggregate resources

Paterson Concrete Works can include recycled materials in many types of projects, including driveways, foundations, etc., and will still have the same strength and longevity as non-recycled products.

3. Carbon Curing Technology

New carbon curing methods are changing how concrete is made and cured.

How It Works

During the mixing process, CO2 is added to freshly made concrete.

The CO2 is converted into calcium carbonate, enhancing the strength of the concrete.

Advantages

• Reduces the carbon footprint of producing concrete
• Improves the strength and longevity of concrete
• Speeds up the curing time, resulting in faster construction times

We are very interested in this new technology and believe it could benefit some of our projects in Paterson.

4. Geopolymer Concrete

Geopolymer concrete is a new option to Portland cement-based concrete.

Some Key Features

• Instead of using cement, use industrial waste products (such as fly ash or slag)
• Less energy is needed to make
• Has excellent durability and chemical resistance

Impact on the Environment

• Much lower CO2 emissions when compared to traditional concrete
• Uses waste material that was previously going to end up in a landfill

Although geopolymer concrete is currently not widely available for residential applications, it is a technology that we are watching for potential residential applications in Paterson.

5. Solar Reflective Concrete

In cities such as Paterson, solar reflective concrete may have a large role to play in decreasing the heat island effect.

How It Works

Adding special pigments or surface finishes to the concrete increases the solar reflectivity of the concrete.

Solar reflective concrete reflects much more sunlight, and therefore absorbs less heat.

Possible Applications

• Driveways
• Sidewalks
• Parking lots
• Roofs

Advantages

• Saves money on cooling for surrounding structures
• Decreases pollution levels in the air caused by decreased temperature levels
• Provides improved comfort in outdoor living areas during the summer months

Implementing Green Practices at Paterson Concrete Works

We are dedicated to providing environmentally friendly options in conjunction with your needs whenever possible. We invite you to discuss these green alternatives with our staff when developing your next concrete project. We can all contribute to building a greener Paterson.

Are you ready to learn about green concrete options for your project? Please contact Paterson Concrete Works for a consultation today. We are working together to develop long-lasting, attractive, and environmentally friendly concrete solutions for your home and/or business.