Driving down a freshly paved road feels like gliding on a cloud—smooth and effortless. Unfortunately, not all roads are in this pristine condition. Roads filled with cracks, bumps, and potholes create frustration for drivers and harm vehicles. But what many don't realize is that smoother roads can also benefit the environment. A recent study from Rutgers University suggests that well-maintained roads, especially asphalt, can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The dream is to have every road as smooth as glass, free from damage, and functioning efficiently.
What They Did
Vehicles—particularly buses, cars, and trucks—are among the largest sources of greenhouse gases, releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere as they travel. The researchers at Rutgers used long-term data from the Federal Highway Administration to track how road repairs affect environmental impact, specifically looking at asphalt and its connection to carbon dioxide emissions. They aimed to measure how maintaining road pavement can help reduce emissions and improve road conditions.
The Results of the Study
The study found that extending the life of roads through preventative maintenance can lower greenhouse gas emissions by as much as two percent. For transportation companies, including trucking fleets, keeping roads in good shape can lead to a reduction in operating costs by up to 30 percent. Drivers also benefit from smoother roads through lower vehicle maintenance costs, longer tire life, and less strain on their car's suspension, all thanks to the improved surface.
The team also assessed the carbon footprint of common repair methods, including adding thin overlays, using emulsion and aggregate, spreading slurry, and filling cracks. Of all these methods, applying thin overlays was the most environmentally friendly, leading to the largest reduction in carbon emissions—around two percent.
What It Means
The study’s results are clear: smooth, well-maintained roads help reduce the carbon footprint. The carbon dioxide generated by vehicles traveling on a rough road is higher than the emissions produced by road repairs themselves. Therefore, keeping roads smooth benefits both vehicle performance and the environment.
Maintaining roads properly is not just about convenience—it’s an environmentally friendly approach that leads to cleaner air and less vehicle strain. It’s a small but impactful step toward a more sustainable future.