VIDEO: Parking Lot Absorbs Stormwater

The pavement material has empty spaces that allow water to flow through easily to reduce flooding

2015-09-pavement.jpg

By Mary Velan

Gov1

https://youtu.be/-iJP7DFt6AU

A company in the UK has developed a fast draining concrete pavement material able to direct stormwater off streets, parking surfaces, driveways and walkways quickly and efficiently. The pavement solution offers a number of long-term benefits for local authorities and stormwater management professionals including:

  • Efficient stormwater management
  • Environmental management
  • Reduced costs
  • Ease of placement
  • Aesthetic appeal

The pavement material has empty spaces that allow water to flow through easily and is applied over a base layer of gravel, which also filters water to reduce flooding. The pavement is able to filter out pollutants as well to ensure storm runoff is not delivering toxic materials into nearby water sources. Because the pavement material cannot withstand consistent pressure from several cars at a time, it is ideal for:

  • Driveways
  • Cycle paths
  • Sidewalks
  • Parking lots
  • Sub bases

The need for permeable materials throughout communities is becoming apparent as the impacts of climate change bring severe storms and heavy rainfall. When stormwater volumes overwhelm antiquated wastewater systems, untreated sewage can be dumped into local waterways. Furthermore, incessant flooding is a significant strain on public and private infrastructure costing billions annually in repairs and rehabilitation.

For more information check out the Topmix Permeable website.