Why Concrete?

Why Concrete?

Central Concrete recognizes the inherent value in aggressively supporting sustainable construction and green building initiatives. Through our Low-CO2 mixes, EF technology® initiative and Certified Concrete Sustainability Specialists (CCSS), we continue to contribute to the building of projects that are environmentally responsible, cost-effective and healthy places to live and work.

Concrete is the future of sustainable construction

Increasingly, concrete is being recognized for its life cycle environmental and economical benefits, from extraction and production, to construction, maintenance and disposal. There are solid facts that make concrete the right choice for effective sustainable development.

CO2 emission – The use of recycled materials in concrete reduces greenhouse gasses, frees up landfill space, and reduces raw material consumption.

Recyclable – After a concrete structure has served its original purpose, the concrete can be crushed and recycled into aggregate for use in new concrete pavements or as a backfill or road base.

Environmental and cost benefits – The use of light-colored exposed concrete pavement and roofing in our urban areas and roadways means that more light is reflected and less heat is absorbed. This might result in significant energy savings as well as healthier and safer communities.

Reduces storm water waste – Pervious Concrete is a strong type of pavement with a porous structure that allows rainwater to pass directly through the pavement and into the soil naturally.

Energy efficient – Buildings constructed of concrete have a unique energy-saving advantage because of their inherent thermal mass. In addition, an insulated concrete wall system can be more energy-efficient than traditional or wood construction.

Durability – Concrete structures offer significant strength compared to other building materials. Concrete can withstand natural disasters in the magnitude of hurricanes, fires, earthquakes and tsunamis. Concrete conserves resources by reducing the need for reconstruction.

Environmental Benefits 

  • Concrete can be produced locally from abundant natural resources
  • Concrete can be made with reclaimed materials that would otherwise burden landfills
  • Recycled materials in concrete reduce CO2 emissions
  • At the end of a concrete building or pavement’s usable life, concrete can be recycled
  • Pervious concrete percolates stormwater into soil, recharging aquifers and preventing polluted runoff from overwhelming streams and lakes
  • Concrete’s thermal mass reduces temperature swings in buildings and conserves energy
  • Concrete’s light color reflects more light at night, reducing lighting infrastructure and energy costs
  • Impervious concrete roofs support green landscaping, reducing water runoff and reducing heat island effect
  • Concrete structures are durable
  • Concrete helps achieve LEED certification

Source: Green Concrete