EP Henry points to eco benefits
According to paver manufacturer EP Henry, maker of the ECO line of permeable pavers, there are several ways an outdoor paved area can be environmentally friendly, contribute to LEED certification and earn the owner tax credits.
The benefits apply to homes and businesses, according to the company. Here are six:
• Storm water management: Traditional, non-PICP paving systems block precipitation from soaking into the soil, creating pools of run-off water. By allowing water to flow through its surface, permeable pavers help prevent storm water runoff and reduce soil erosion.
• Decreased water pollution: When rain water runs across impervious surfaces, it picks up pollutants and carries them to a larger water supply. Permeable products reduce runoff and subsequent pollution, and also adhere to the Stormwater Best Management Practices as outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program.
• Compliance with storm water regulations: In an effort to manage runoff and pollution, local governments often place limits on the amount of impervious surface coverage permitted at each residential or commercial property. Some municipal agencies offer stormwater reduction incentives for permaeable pavers. Incentives include tax credits and reduced water rates.
• Credits toward LEED certification: For builders, businesses and homeowners looking to obtain LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) status from the U.S. Green Building Council, they can gain credits toward certification by using ECO Line to build the structure’s paved surfaces.
• Rain water irrigation: Installing systems that capture and hold rain water -- known as “rain harvesting” -- allows homeowners to irrigate areas of their property with captured rain water instead of municipal or well water.
• A more aesthetic approach: Other environmentally friendly paving systems, such as porous concrete or asphalt, offer little to no options in terms of appearance.