Environmental Benefits water permeable Click here to see video. (quicktime required) To download quicktime, click here. increases groundwater recharge minimizes runoff decreases pollution in waterways minimizes impact on ecosystem. Performance The prevalence of impermeable paving on developed land has led to a decrease in groundwater recharge and an increased risk of contamination, as runoff from rain washes surface pollutants directly into our waterways. To combat this problem, traditional pavers have been installed with gaps for water to seep through, but this creates safety and accessibility issues as well as the need for an additional material (such as grass or sand) to fill the gaps. With Ekopaver, water seeps through the material, increasing groundwater recharge while minimizing the harmful effects of runoff and erosion. It's a cost-effective way to comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program and also meets or exceeds most local rain and storm water runoff control requirements. Design Benefits versatile - available in any shape or color installs flush - no gaps between pavers durable - lasts longer and is less reactive than conventional materials easy to maintain exceeds ASTM C-936 - average minimum compression strength of 8000 p.s.i. Aesthetics Ekopaver is an ideal material for any design that requires solid outdoor paving. Because it's water permeable, it can be installed without gaps between the pavers, resulting in a completely smooth surface with fewer tripping hazards and greater handicap accessibility - not to mention an infinite number of possible patterns or designs. The pavers are also lightly textured for a safer, less slippery finish. And with an average minimum compression strength of 8000 p.s.i., Ekopaver is also strong enough to withstand vehicle traffic, making it ideal for driveways or parking lots. Ekopaver can be custom ordered in any color or shape for infinite creative possibility and ultimate creative control. The ceramic-based material is a better vehicle for pigment than concrete, yielding brighter and more vivid colors. It's also less sensitive to chemicals or other environmental stressors that might adversely affect the look and finish of the surface, so the pavers will wear better and last longer. Click to see the action of Ekopaver.