Very interesting. Stormwater BMPs like permeable pavement are one of the most effective ways to protect our receiving waters from the impacts of urban runoff and for greater groundwater infiltration and stormwater retention. This market is growing very fast here in California as we have some of the strictest stormwater environmental regulations and standards when it comes to construction and industrial discharges. The key downside to it is the very high upfront cost of it and it's not always very cost effective but it pays off in the long term with reduced flooding and pollution impacts. However, not only does it bring those benefits along with increasing pervious surfaces to reduce the flow volume, erosion, and scouring of our rivers and lakes but recent research in huge megalopolises like Los Angeles where I was raised has found that cool pavement that is less black and more gray can reduce the impacts of the heat island effect. With the impacts of global warming set to cause much warmer weather the use of cooler pavement that's permeable may help to reduce the impacts of extreme heat waves, deaths from air pollution and extreme heat will help cool the streets and surrounding homes. Pilot research in Los Angeles has found that global warming potential can get reduced by up to 10% and will be better for public health. Very fascinating research! Any comments or feedback on this? Thanks.

Published July 23, 2017 08:56 by Amir Baum, Environmental Health and Safety Manager