New rules will ban impermeable driveways in the UK
There have been discussions in the UK about introducing new rules that could ban the use of impermeable driveways in new houses. This proposal aims to tackle the issue of surface water flooding, which can occur when rainwater cannot be absorbed into the ground due to large areas that are hard and impervious, such as driveways.
The proposed rules would require new driveways to be made of permeable materials that allow rainwater to soak into the ground. This would help to reduce the risk of flooding and also improve drainage and water quality.
However, it is important to note that these rules are still in the proposal stage and have not yet been implemented. The UK government is currently consulting with industry experts and stakeholders to gather feedback on the proposals before any final decisions are made.
If the rules are implemented, they are likely to apply to new houses and potentially to some existing properties undergoing major renovations or extensions. Homeowners who already have impermeable driveways (tarmacadam (asphalt), pattern imprinted concrete, concrete products) may not be required to replace them immediately, but they may need to do so if they decide to make changes to their property in the future.
The aim of these proposed regulations is to promote sustainable development and reduce the risk of surface water flooding in the UK.
Extremely budget-friendly green alternative
Permeable paving grids, like the Stella Green system, are a sustainable alternative to traditional paved surfaces. These systems are designed to allow water to penetrate through the surface rather than being diverted away by conventional pavement. This promotes water infiltration, reduces stormwater runoff, and improves groundwater recharge.
The Stella Green system consists of interlocking plastic grids filled with a porous material, such as gravel or grass. The grids can be easily installed over a variety of surfaces, including driveways, parking lots, and walkways. Once installed, the permeable surface provides a stable and durable surface for foot and vehicular traffic while allowing water to pass through.
Filtration of pollutants and reduction of stormwater runoff
One of the major benefits of permeable paving grids is their ability to reduce stormwater runoff, which can be a significant problem in urban areas. When rainwater hits impermeable surfaces like traditional pavement, it collects pollutants such as oil, gasoline, and fertiliser and carries them into storm drains and eventually into rivers and oceans. By allowing water to penetrate through the surface, permeable paving grids filter out pollutants and reduce the amount of runoff that enters our waterways.
No heat island effect
Additionally, the porous surface of permeable paving grids can help reduce the urban heat island effect, which occurs when paved surfaces absorb and radiate heat, making urban areas hotter than surrounding areas. The vegetation-filled grids can absorb some of the sun’s energy and release it through evapotranspiration, which cools the surrounding air.
No puddles in summer, no ice formation in winter
Permeable paving prevents puddles from forming after a downpour throughout the year. In addition to reducing the slipping hazard of puddles, you’ll have less trouble with algae and moss.
In harmony with nature
Stella Green products are made of 100% recycled plastic. We use granulated PP and PE recycled on-site. This input is made exclusively from clean production waste that is free from heavy metals and other contaminants. All Stella Green products are recyclable for sustained environmental protection. This means there is less pressure on the environment through new materials not having to be sourced. Using recycled materials also helps reduce landfill expansion.
The Stella Green permeable paving grid system offers a sustainable and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional paving surfaces. By reducing stormwater runoff, filtering pollutants, and mitigating the urban heat island effect, the system can help improve the health of urban ecosystems and make cities more resilient to climate change.
