Low impact development changes the cityscape, specifically with the use of a specific landscape supplies. Building sustainability requires using specific materials and permeable surfaces to alter the current complexities of hardscape areas. By using environmentally friendly materials, there is the ability to have lower impact on the environment while having efficiency with the materials that are used with for landscapes.
Landscape supplies that are able to assist with sustainable landscaping and urban development is permeable paving. These applications have a base that is environmentally friendly and which balances the environment. The sub base is able to absorb and move water through the surface. Instead of sediment run off and holding the water contaminants, a natural process is used with the pavement. The result is the ability to filter pollution and prevent runoff that destroys hardscapes.
Porous materials and landscape supplies can be used with any application, ranging from pathways to vehicular paths. More important, the application does not differ from nonporous materials. Instead, the environmental approach is able to control erosion of the pavement, reduce maintenance and improve the quality of applications within a city. This is related specifically to the absorption and natural response to the environment surrounding the materials.
The landscape supplies that are used not only provides better options for erosion control and the heat island effect. A natural balance with plants and surrounding landscapes is more effective. The porous material and the division between the base allows plants to continue to grow naturally without interfering with the pathway that is used. This effect provides an environmentally friendly application to those who are working with the materials.
With environmentally friendly landscape supplies and materials is the ability to change the hardscape. Low maintenance, erosion control and environmentally friendly solutions are available through the materials. With these applications, landscape architects can change the quality and outcome of the pathways that are developed for sustainable cities.