A new asphalt mix that was used to construct a cycle path in Birmingham, has been found to significantly lower carbon emissions.
Jackson Civil Engineering developed the substance using recycled aggregates and processed waste products, stating that it will help to reduce the carbon footprint of all surfacing works.
Early calculations by the company show the low carbon foamed asphalt path could create CO2 savings of up to 90 percent, when compared with a traditional hot AC20 asphalt mix.
The process was implemented in the construction of a new cycle path for Birmingham City Council.
Phase 1 of the 2.5km trail is already complete. The remainder will soon be underway, as the firm estimates that up to 70 tonnes of CO2 could be saved throughout the entire process.
Andy Lusher, Supply Chain Manager for Jackson, said: “The cycle path provided an opportunity to look at the original design and ask ourselves how we could do this in a more carbon-friendly way.
“We brought our supply chain together to use their expertise and come up with a solution that was truly innovative.”
As many as 30 tonnes of CO2 was saved by using ultra-low carbon Cemfree concrete. This product beds and surrounds the kerbstones alongside the cycle path. It was originally developed by DB Group and produced by Accumix Concrete.
The success of this trial scheme may encourage other companies to confidently use low-carbon concrete and asphalt, as well as finding additional sustainable products. Both of which will help when working towards the global Zero Carbon target.
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