Nova Chemicals, GreenMantra complete second asphalt-paving project
Nova Chemicals Corporation and GreenMantra Technologies recently announced the completion of an asphalt-paving project that incorporates the equivalent of 700,000 plastic bags in post-consumer recycled plastic materials into two pathways and a parking lot.
The project is located at the construction site of NOVA Chemicals’ newest polyethylene manufacturing facility near Sarnia.
“This is an excellent example of Canadian innovation and collaboration to shape a world that is better tomorrow than it is today,” said Sarah Marshall, vice president of sustainability, NOVA Chemicals. “Together, we are finding new solutions to divert plastic waste from landfill and create a circular economy for plastic materials.”
Last year, NOVA Chemicals contacted GreenMantra to initiate a field paving trial, which included the equivalent of 118,000 plastic bags in two 1,700-foot pathways located at its future Rokeby Site. The pilot helped the company understand how the paving would perform in the local climate and the environmental impact of freeze-thaw cycles, UV rays, and moisture in addition to bearing the load of heavy construction equipment.
The success of the test led Nova to contract with GreenMantra for the expanded paving project.
Brampton-based GreenMantra upcycles post-consumer and post-industrial recycled plastics into specialty waxes and polymer additives that enhance asphalt, roofing, and plastic products. The company’s specialty polymers are certified as 100 percent recycled content and can replace virgin polymers in industrial products. Doing so reduces a project’s carbon footprint and improves its sustainability and performance.
The Nova Chemicals paving project incorporated a polymer additive that boosts the performance of the asphalt and delivers stronger, more durable roads.
“This paving project that incorporates recycled plastic in our new parking lot is another way we can demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and being a good neighbour here in Lambton County,” said Rob Thompson, vice president of manufacturing, Nova Chemicals.
Featured image: GreenMantra Paving crews perform work at the Nova Chemicals plant near Sarnia. (GreenMantra)