Transport for NSW trials new bio-bitumen asphalt developed by Colas

NSW

asphalt, Colas, NSW, sustainability,

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Transport for NSW has recently laid bio-bitumen asphalt developed by Colas as part of the new trial to lay the groundwork for a greener road network.

A new trial is laying the groundwork for a greener road network through the use of bio-bitumen.

Transport for NSW recently laid the bio-bitumen asphalt, also known as ECO5, on a section of road at Raymond Terrace as part of the trial.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting initiatives that improve sustainability in road infrastructure projects,” says Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison.

“This trial, a first for Transport for NSW, is a huge step on the road to exploring ways we can reduce our carbon footprint,” says Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison.

“Trialling innovative technologies, such as bio-bitumen, is vital in achieving the goal of net zero emissions for the transport section by 2050,” says Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison.

“This trial is an important milestone in moving towards using more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials as part of our daily road practices,” says Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington.

“The asphalt company Colas developed the ECO5 product, and the asphalt produced for this trial, came out of their Tomago plant in Port Stephens. The product was developed through a combination of local and international research and development,” says Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington.

The bio-bitumen uses repurposed materials including recycled crushed glass, asphalt and crumbed rubber derived from end-of-life tyres, allowing for a lower carbon output per tonne of asphalt and fewer emissions.

“Transport for NSW wanted to see what sort of environmentally beneficial asphalt products were out in the market and what we could utilise on our roads as a better environmental product,” says Transport for NSW Senior Manager Maintenance and Delivery North Stuart Baverstock.

“Transport for NSW uses a huge amount of asphalt. It is a very carbon-rich product, so if we can reduce that even in small amounts then we will get huge savings,” says Transport for NSW Senior Manager Maintenance and Delivery North Stuart Baverstock.

The carbon footprint of ECO5 asphalt is 30% less than that of conventional asphalt.

Transport for NSW will continue to monitor the trial over coming months and, if successful, it could pave the way for similar technology to be adopted across the state’s road network.

Source: © NSW Government 2024

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