Resin driveways are fast becoming one of the most popular driveway choices and it is easy to see why. They are endlessly versatile, very attractive, low maintenance, and can last for more than two decades. As we all exist in an ever more environmentally conscious world, choosing an environmentally friendly driveway option is now also a priority for many people. So are resin driveways environmentally friendly? In a nutshell, yes for the most part they are one of the more eco-friendly options available.
Let's take a deep dive into what makes resin driveways environmentally friendly and why this can mean they are the best choice for your home.
A quick note before we begin talking about permeable resin driveways. There is a difference between resin-bonded and resin-bound driveways. With resin-bonded driveways, the resin is laid on the surface before the aggregate is sprinkled on top. These types of driveways are a cheaper option but they are not permeable.
Resin-bound driveways on the other hand are permeable surfaces. With these, the resin is mixed with aggregate before being laid. It is resin-bound driveways that we are going to be focusing on as these are the most environmentally friendly options.
So what do we mean by a permeable surface? This is a surface that allows water to drain through it into the soil below. Non-permeable surfaces collect surface water that pours into storm drains.
This distinction is very important from an environmental point of view. Traditionally, most urban areas have been built using non-permeable materials such as Tarmac, asphalt, and concrete. And this has had a negative impact on the local environment because of the way that water drains. We also recommend taking a look at our post "Are Resin Driveways Better Than Tarmac?" for valuable insights.
When water drains through a permeable surface such as a resin-bound driveway, it does so slowly and at a controlled rate, directly through the soil below. This has a few different effects.
When water drains from a non-permeable surface, on the other hand, it flows directly into the installed storm drains nearby. This can be a problem for a few different reasons.
The problems that surround non-permeable materials are well known, which is why the government has implemented regulations regarding sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS). SuDS are urban development materials that are naturally permeable, such as a resin driveway, and don't need a separate drainage system installed to deal with water run-off.
Installing a SuDS-compliant driveway such as a resin driveway won't just mean that you are having a positive environmental impact but it also has the benefit of being actively supported by the government. An example of this is that you usually don't need planning permission for a SuDS-compliant driveway whereas you would for a non-permeable driveway. For more information, you can check out our post "Do You Need Planning Permission For A Resin Driveway".
The environmental benefits of resin-bound surfaces don't just stop at how permeable they are. Other elements can also have a positive environmental impact.
A resin driveway is a long-lasting driveway. Properly installed and maintained, you can expect a resin-bound driveway to last upwards of two decades. This isn't just great for you, it also means that you are reducing your carbon footprint through not needing the energy required for new driveway installation as often. To learn more about how long do resin driveways last, take a look at our post.
Not all resin driveways use recycled materials, but it is becoming much more common. Recycled glass, stone, and plastics that otherwise would have little use can be used as aggregates for a resin-bound surface. This reduces the energy that would be used for the creation of new aggregates and is an environmentally friendly option.
One of the benefits of s resin bound surface is that it is extremely versatile in terms of shaping. It can be poured into any shape or configuration that you like, which means that it can work around existing trees, shrubs, and other plants in your garden area. Not digging this plant life up will help to support your local environment and wildlife.
Resin driveways can bear the weight of multiple cars in a small area. This means that you don't need to rip up and pave your entire front garden. Completely paved front gardens harm the environment because they create an urban desert where no plants can grow, no insects can exist, and no wildlife can feed.
It should be noted that natural resin still isn't the most common resin material used for resin-bound driveways. Other materials such as epoxy resin, which aren't environmentally friendly, are more often used. But if you can source natural resin for your driveway, it is a renewable option that has a positive environmental impact.
Overall, resin driveways are one of the most environmentally friendly options available, over and above concrete driveways, block paving, and Tarmac. It is a sustainable urban drainage system that often uses recycled materials like recycled stones and glass, can work around existing trees and plants, reduces the need to pave an entire garden, and will last for decades.
If you think a resin driveway is the best option for you, don't hesitate to get in touch. We are experts in installing resin-bound driveways that meet your exact needs and specifications. If, for example, you do want to preserve any plant life in your garden, we can work with you to ensure that your resin driveway interferes as little as possible. We will also ensure that it is installed to the highest of standards, reducing the need for future repairs or new installations. Our post "Can You Repair Resin Driveways" maybe interest you. You can check it out.
