Carbon reduction and planning of active travel projects : translating good practice and international standard into specific guidance for active travel infrastructure construction in Scotland
Dantas, Luina (2024)
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024110527395
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024110527395
Tiivistelmä
Given the critical role of carbon dioxide in global warming and the need for net zero emissions to stabilize climate change, this study evaluates the carbon footprint associated with different stages of greenway (traffic free route) projects, from material selection to construction processes. The research identifies potential areas for carbon reduction and environmental improvements throughout the life cycle of active travel infrastructure.
The methodology involves using the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method and the study examines both Build Over Existing Infrastructure and Newly Built projects to compare their carbon footprints.
The results indicate that refurbishing existing infrastructures typically results in significantly lower carbon emissions compared to new constructions, highlighting the potential of Build Less strategies in achieving substantial carbon savings. Additionally, the inclusion of green infrastructure, such as planting large trees, was shown to provide significant carbon offsets, with projects incorporating tree planting offsetting up to 49.05 percent of their total carbon footprint.
The analysis of different pavement options reveals that permeable blocks and concrete flags offer the lowest carbon emissions, although they may not always be suitable for all types of active travel paths. Warm mix asphalt, while offering moderate carbon reductions, presents a balanced option with lower emissions compared to traditional asphalt.
The research concludes that integrating circular economy practices, such as using recycled materials and considering environmental impacts during the planning stages, can substantially enhance the sustainability of active travel infrastructure. The findings provide insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to promote sustainable and low carbon active travel solutions.
The methodology involves using the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method and the study examines both Build Over Existing Infrastructure and Newly Built projects to compare their carbon footprints.
The results indicate that refurbishing existing infrastructures typically results in significantly lower carbon emissions compared to new constructions, highlighting the potential of Build Less strategies in achieving substantial carbon savings. Additionally, the inclusion of green infrastructure, such as planting large trees, was shown to provide significant carbon offsets, with projects incorporating tree planting offsetting up to 49.05 percent of their total carbon footprint.
The analysis of different pavement options reveals that permeable blocks and concrete flags offer the lowest carbon emissions, although they may not always be suitable for all types of active travel paths. Warm mix asphalt, while offering moderate carbon reductions, presents a balanced option with lower emissions compared to traditional asphalt.
The research concludes that integrating circular economy practices, such as using recycled materials and considering environmental impacts during the planning stages, can substantially enhance the sustainability of active travel infrastructure. The findings provide insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to promote sustainable and low carbon active travel solutions.