Avoid concrete and asphalt, which are both highly processed and environmentally bad (it is estimated that 5-10% of all CO₂ emissions worldwide are related to the production and use of concrete and asphalt).

Better choices are wood chippings, gravel, or a recycled aggregate such as glass. It can usually be laid over firm earth on top of a bed of sand. If buying (rather than making your own) wood chippings, check for the FSC logo.

If a sub-base is needed – for example if the drive is to contain a car, then this can be made from recycled crushed stone or brick, or sand and gravel.