A new asphalt additive made from recycled plastic is set to transform Scottish roads. Known as EcoFlakes, this innovative product is being trialed on a road in Motherwell, Scotland, according to North Lanarkshire Council.
Typically, asphalt is made by mixing gravel and sand with bitumen—a byproduct of crude oil. This process releases a significant amount of greenhouse gases, with road construction and maintenance contributing over 12% of global emissions, as reported by the World Resources Institute.
However, by adding EcoFlakes to the asphalt mix, pollution related to asphalt production can be reduced by up to 20%. Plus, roads created with this mixture are expected to last longer. This is a win-win for both the environment and drivers.
Recycling plastic also helps mitigate pollution. Plastic waste, especially from oil, often harms natural ecosystems. Using it in road construction not only repurposes this material but also aids in the fight against pollution.
The EcoFlakes road will be monitored for five years as part of Live Labs 2, a Department for Transport initiative aiming to enhance highways across the UK. Other experimental materials in this program include anti-ice asphalt and self-healing concrete.
According to a recent study from the National Institutes of Health, using recycled materials in construction not only reduces waste but also decreases the energy required for production. It highlights that transitioning to sustainable building materials is crucial for long-term environmental health.
Councillor Helen Loughran of North Lanarkshire emphasized the significance of this initiative: “As the only council in Scotland involved with Live Labs 2, we are paving the way for others. Sustainable infrastructure is not just possible; it’s practical.”
With roads that are kinder to the planet and our wallets, EcoFlakes represents a promising step towards greener urban development.
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