While efforts to cut operational emissions have advanced, the embedded emissions in materials such as asphalt remain a significant hurdle. By targeting these often-overlooked emissions, Verde and Ergon’s collaboration provides a practical, near-term solution that can be implemented within current roadbuilding practices.
Unlike many emerging carbon-reduction technologies, Verde’s binder is already compatible with existing asphalt standards and construction methods. This allows roadbuilders to adopt the material without the need for design changes, new equipment, or extensive retraining—critical factors for gaining market acceptance in the risk-averse construction sector.
Ergon brings established strengths to the partnership, including a nationwide network of asphalt refining and blending facilities and relationships with departments of transportation, contractors, and material suppliers. Leveraging this infrastructure provides a clear pathway to moving beyond pilot projects to full-scale market rollout.
Pavement materials, including asphalt, contribute a significant share of the total carbon footprint of infrastructure projects.
Verde’s technology addresses this issue by capturing and converting CO₂ into a high-performance binder that replaces traditional petroleum-based materials. The resulting asphalt products are designed to meet or exceed current performance standards while delivering a lower carbon profile.
By combining Verde’s field-tested technology with Ergon’s operational scale, the companies aim to offer a practical solution for decarbonizing one of the infrastructure sector’s most carbon-intensive materials—without disrupting existing supply chains.
