When it comes to the construction and paving industry, these sectors are not generally seen as the most environmentally friendly. As our country continues to move forward in an effort to promote environmentally conscious products and services, Gray & Son knows that it is important for us to do our part. As a company that focuses on community, we work diligently to do the best we can for our clients and community members across the Mid-Atlantic. That is why our team uses RAP, or reclaimed asphalt pavement to make a difference in our local environment, without sacrificing quality. Learn why we’ve chosen to do so, and the impact this has made below.
How RAP is Making an Impact Across the Mid-Atlantic
Reclaimed asphalt pavement began in the early 1970s, and has now been used for two main reasons — economic savings and environmental benefits. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the use of RAP conserves energy, lowers transportation costs required to obtain quality virgin aggregate, and preserves natural resources. Seeing as Maryland (13) and Delaware (18) are both ranked in the top 20 “greenest states” in America, the need for environmentally friendly practices is vital, and will only continue to grow. Additionally, RAP decreases the amount of construction debris placed into landfills and does not deplete nonrenewable natural resources such as virgin aggregate and asphalt binder. At Gray & Son, we strive to be at the forefront of this change, moving the construction and paving industry into a new era, and truly making Gray the new “green”.
Gray & Son and Maryland Paving Have Extensive Experience with RAP
Reclaimed asphalt pavement is America’s most recycled material. As a leader in heavy highway, residential and commercial paving, Gray & Son understands the importance of an environmentally friendly pavement product, and how large of an impact this can make on our community. Gray & Son mills over one million square yards of reclaimed asphalt in a year, that’s the size of 156 football fields! Maryland Paving then uses a crusher to break the millings down into a smaller, more uniformed size, allowing the RAP to be placed into new asphalt mixes. It is important to note that environmental stewardship does not mean sacrificing quality of work. Reclaimed asphalt is high-quality, durable pavement that can be used on roads of any size, ready to stay strong during whatever Maryland weather throws at it. Our green initiatives, such as the use of RAP, are not only in line with today’s societal standards, but is the most cost effective course of action, for our customers, our employees, our shareholders, and our communities.
Reclaimed Asphalt Saves Both Money and Energy
When it comes to reclaimed asphalt, there is more than just an environmental benefit. RAP saves communities thousands, and even millions of dollars while providing a level of environmental sustainability. It has been estimated that recycling of asphalt pavements saves the American taxpayer $1.8 billion dollars per year, and is being recycled and reused at a rate over 95 percent. Outside of the financial benefits RAP provides, this asphalt reduces the use of landfill space and natural resources, helping keep our community clean and continue to move forward with innovation and strategy. Gray & Son will continue to prioritize environmentally conscious products and practices, paving the way for our industry in Maryland and across the country.
See How Gray & Son and Maryland Paving Are Making Gray the New Green
Maryland Paving, a division of Gray & Son, has been serving the Old Line state for over half a century. As the best provider of asphalt pavement and other aggregate products in the Baltimore region, we know we have a reputation to uphold, and there is no better way to do that than by providing quality work with a passion for our local environment. It’s a reputation worth preserving, and it’s a product and an industry worth advancing. To learn how Gray & Son and Maryland Paving can help you, contact us today.