* What: The Double Barrel Green system, which uses water to create a foamed, warm asphalt mix, reduces the temperature needed to create asphalt.
* Company: Astec Industries
* Location: 4101 Jerome Ave.
* How it's green: In addition to saving heat energy by reducing the temperature from between 300 and 340 degrees Fahrenheit to 230 to 270 degrees, the system also eliminates the smoke and smell typically associated with asphalt paving projects, because light oils in the mix never reach their boiling point, said Ben Brock, president of Astec. Also, fuel consumption is reduced by 14 percent.
* How long will it last: With proper maintenance, the Double Barrel Green System can last about as long as an asphalt plant, which typically is 20 to 30 years, Brock said.
* Why do it this way?: "Our customers really pushed us to do it," Brock said, adding the system is not only eco-friendly but also saves customers money.
* Plans for expanding: Astec working on several other green initiatives, including projects that harness solar power and wood pellets for energy.
* Advice for others considering green initiatives: "At the end of the day, if they want it to sell, the economics have to show a return for who you want to sell it to," Brock said. When considering a green product or initiative, "It could be the greatest idea in the world, but it has to work," he said.
* Is environmentalism an essential part of the business and why?: As Astec restructures its company to put an emphasis on energy, environmentalism is becoming more of a focus. "We all want to be here long term," Brock said. "And there's two ways to do that: A healthy environment and to continue to stay going as a company. You have to have a balance between the two."
- Compiled by Brittany Cofer. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/brittanycofer.