Building a Sustainable Future with ROMEX Hardscapes
We believe that sustainability in hardscape construction is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. As environmental concerns grow and municipalities enforce stricter regulations on stormwater management and carbon emissions, choosing the right materials can make a significant impact. At ROMEX Hardscapes, we prioritize sustainability by producing high-quality, long-lasting products with minimal environmental impact.
Reducing Carbon Emissions with ROMEX TRASS BED
Concrete slabs are notorious for their high carbon footprint, but ROMEX TRASS BED provides a sustainable alternative. This permeable bedding system contains 30-40% less embodied carbon than poured concrete. Additionally, should the need arise, cured TRASS BED can be crushed and recycled instead of being discarded, though its 50-year-plus lifespan makes replacement rare.
TRASS mineral, a key component in ROMEX TRASS BED, is extracted and processed with minimal energy consumption. Unlike cement, which requires an energy-intensive burning process, TRASS mineral is mined in an open pit, air-dried, and ground—leading to significantly lower CO2 emissions.
Locally Sourced Materials for a Lower Carbon Footprint
Originally, all ROMEX products were manufactured in Germany and shipped worldwide. However, due to increasing demand and a commitment to sustainability, we have expanded our supply chain and manufacturing processes to North America. Today, most ROMEX products are made and distributed in North America, significantly reducing transportation emissions. Additionally, we source our aggregates and filler sands locally whenever possible, further minimizing our carbon footprint. By keeping production and distribution closer to home, we not only lower environmental impact but also support local economies and contribute to a more sustainable construction industry.
Award-Winning Sustainability with ROMEX ECOFINE
One of our most environmentally friendly innovations is ROMEX ECOFINE, a resin jointing mortar made from 98% natural, recycled, or renewable raw materials. Even the packaging is designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing buckets made of 97% post-consumer recycled plastics. Additionally, ROMEX ECOFINE is produced using solar power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
As we’ve expanded manufacturing in North America, we continue to set new standards for sustainability in hardscape construction. ROMEX ECOFINE’s eco-friendly design has been recognized internationally, winning the “Best of Eco” award at the BHB Industry Awards in Germany. This recognition reflects not only our German engineering roots but also how far we’ve come in bringing sustainable solutions closer to home.
Permeability: Reducing Stormwater Runoff and Easing Drainage Systems
ROMEX jointing and bedding products are all highly permeable, allowing rainfall and stormwater to infiltrate the ground instead of contributing to surface runoff. This feature helps cities and communities manage water sustainably by preventing overloading of drainage and sewage systems, reducing flooding risks, and promoting groundwater recharge.
Our most permeable jointing product is ROMEX DRAIN and has the following infiltration rates:
1,5 × 10-3 m/s | 212.6 iph approx. 4,5 l/min/m² 0.11 gal/min/sqft.
Safe, Long-Lasting, and Eco-Conscious Products
Durability is a key aspect of sustainability, and ROMEX products are built to stand the test of time. A prime example is Las Vegas Boulevard, where ROMEX jointing mortars were used to withstand the high foot traffic and extreme desert climate. By choosing our durable products, the city reduced the need for frequent repairs and replacements, minimizing waste and long-term environmental impact.
Many polymeric sands on the market contain low-cost, environmentally harmful accelerators that degrade quickly and require constant reinstallation. Any hardscape project with sustainability in mind should consider the impact of these products and opt for high-quality, long-lasting alternatives like ROMEX ECOFINE and TRASS BED.
Additionally, once cured, our resin-based jointing and gravel binding products are chemically inert, making them safe for environmentally sensitive areas. For example, our work at Canada Place in Vancouver highlights the importance of using non-toxic, durable materials in hardscapes near bodies of water. Whether in bustling urban environments like Las Vegas or waterfront locations like Vancouver, ROMEX ensures sustainability through strength and longevity.
Commitment to a Greener Future
Sustainability isn’t just a feature of ROMEX products—it’s a core philosophy. From reducing embodied carbon and using renewable energy sources to ensuring permeability and longevity, our innovations support a greener, more responsible approach to hardscape construction.
By choosing ROMEX Hardscapes, contractors, designers, and property owners can build with confidence, knowing they are using materials that meet the highest environmental and performance standards. Ready to make your next project more sustainable? Contact ROMEX today to learn more!
Need help choosing the right ROMEX product? Contact our team today!
