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 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.
The carbon footprint of ECO5 asphalt is 30 per cent 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.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“The NSW Government is committed to supporting initiatives that improve sustainability in road infrastructure projects.
“This trial, a first for Transport for NSW, is a huge step on the road to exploring ways we can reduce our carbon footprint.
“Trialling innovative technologies, such as bio-bitumen, is vital in achieving the goal of net zero emissions for the transport section by 2050.
“Well done to Transport for NSW and its contractors for paving the way for a more sustainable future.”
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:
“This trial is an important milestone in moving towards using more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials as part of our daily road practices.
“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.
“It’s great to see Port Stephens is laying the foundations for a greener future and better local roads.”
Transport for NSW Senior Manager Maintenance and Delivery North Stuart Baverstock:
“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.
“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.”