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The construction and paving industries are increasingly embracing sustainability practices, with one of the most impactful ways being through the integration of recycled materials.
Using products such as recycled concrete gravel and recycled asphalt pavement not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also offers cost savings and logistical efficiencies to contractors, producers, and customers. At Forest Paving Ltd., we advocate for these materials through the promotion on our own construction projects, and through our recycle production facility where we produce the material in house.
The Benefits of Recycled Concrete Gravel
One of the most common ways that recycled materials are used in construction is through the incorporation of recycled concrete gravel as a subgrade for roads, driveways, and other paved surfaces. Subgrade refers to the layer of material underneath the asphalt or concrete, providing structural support and stability to the pavement above.
Recycled concrete gravel is created by crushing and screening broken concrete into an allowable specification of either Granular A or Granular B that can be used in construction. This process not only keeps waste out of landfills but also reduces the demand for virgin materials.
For the producer, creating recycled concrete cuts down on the extraction and processing of new materials, saving energy and resources. Producers create recycling facilities in accessible and convenient locations by sourcing rubble from jobsites directly to their facilities. With sources of virgin materials becoming more and more distant from the city core, producing recycled product close to our jobsites allows us to cut down on the transportation of virgin material to the aggregate depots. This not only turns into cost savings for the customer, but also has a significant impact on the reduction of trucks on the road and translates to less vehicle pollution, less road congestion, and ultimately less wear and tear on our arterial roadways. Producers can turn waste materials into valuable products, reducing their overall environmental impact while offering a viable substitution to the industry.
For contractors, recycled concrete gravel offers a cost-effective and durable solution for subgrade applications. The material performs similarly to virgin aggregate but usually at a lower cost, providing contractors with the ability to meet budget constraints without compromising quality. Additionally, using recycled materials and designated recycled dumpsites such as Forest Paving allows contractors to promote their commitment to sustainable practices, which can appeal to environmentally conscious clients.
For customers, the use of recycled concrete gravel translates into cost savings on projects without sacrificing quality or longevity. Roads and driveways constructed with recycled gravel subgrade are just as strong and reliable as those made with virgin materials, providing long-term value at a reduced price point. So always ask about a recycled option!
Recycled Asphalt Pavement in Hot Mix Asphalt
Another key area where recycling is making a significant impact is through the use of recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) in hot mix asphalt production. RAP consists of broken asphalt that undergoes a similar crushing and screening process as recycled concrete, with the primary use of being reintroduced into new asphalt mixes. This process helps to reduce the need for virgin asphalt materials and allows for the reuse of valuable resources.
For the producer, RAP reduces the need for raw bitumen (asphalt cement – the sticky black oil that bonds everything), which is a key component of asphalt, as well as virgin aggregate materials. By incorporating RAP into hot mix asphalt, producers can reduce their environmental footprint significantly, all while maintaining the highest quality of a long lasting and durable product.
The benefits of RAP are nearly identical to those of recycled concrete, with the attraction of sustainability and affordability at the forefront. As the popularity of recycled material grows, the research and knowledge surrounding the material improves as well. Most laboratories and associations in the industry are working to find ways we can create the highest quality of recycled products and maximize their usage. Research is the key to improving the quality control of the recycled products, and as the quality improves, so does the opportunity for using recycled products on high profile and large-scale projects. We are moving in the right direction as the use of recycled material is being specified in MTO projects!
Recycled Asphalt Pavement in Hot Mix Asphalt
At Forest Paving Ltd., our internal crushing operations allows us to take in broken rubble material, including asphalt and concrete, and process it into various recycled products that meet the OPSS specification. Whether it’s creating recycled concrete gravel for subgrade or processing RAP for asphalt hot mix, we ensure that these valuable materials are given a second life through a variety of applications.
By producing and testing these products in-house, we maintain control over the quality of our recycled products and reduce transportation costs associated with hauling materials to off-site facilities. This vertical integration enables us to offer competitive pricing while upholding our high standards of quality and environmental responsibility.
Undeniable benefits of recycled materials
The integration of recycled materials in paving and construction offers undeniable benefits to all stakeholders involved. At Forest Paving Ltd., we’re proud to be a part of the movement to promote sustainable practices through our use and production of recycled concrete gravel and RAP. By choosing recycled products, producers, contractors, and customers alike can reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry.
To learn more about our recycling services and how we can support your next paving project, contact the team at Forest Paving Ltd. Email us at paving@forestgroup.ca or call 905.761.1006 — we’ve got you covered.