Rijkswaterstaat's Sustainable Initiative for Greener Asphalt Production
The Hague, Wednesday, 25 December 2024.
Rijkswaterstaat leverages procurement to foster sustainable asphalt production, aiming to transform the market through the koploperaanpak initiative, enhancing sustainability in the Netherlands.
Strategic Sustainability Drive
Rijkswaterstaat, the Dutch infrastructure management agency, has launched an innovative procurement strategy called ‘koploperaanpak’ (frontrunner approach) in December 2024 to revolutionize asphalt production [1]. This initiative marks a significant shift from traditional price-focused procurement to a sustainability-driven approach, particularly targeting the asphalt supply chain [1]. The program aims to achieve ambitious environmental targets, including climate neutrality and a 50% reduction in primary raw material use by 2030 [1].
Environmental Impact Assessment
A key component of the initiative is the Milieukostenindicator (MKI), a comprehensive environmental impact measurement tool that evaluates eleven different categories, including toxicity, water quality, and climate change impacts throughout the material lifecycle [1]. This systematic approach allows Rijkswaterstaat to assess and incentivize the most sustainable practices in asphalt production [1]. The strategy is being implemented through pilot projects on major Dutch highways, including the A2 and A12, where maintenance work incorporates noise-reducing asphalt layers [1].
Market Transformation
According to Elsa de Vries, procurement advisor at Rijkswaterstaat, while most companies show ambition to become more sustainable, there’s a careful balance to maintain between environmental goals and commercial viability [1]. The initiative encourages market parties to innovate in environmentally friendly asphalt production methods, with the MKI serving as a key criterion in contract awards [1]. This approach aligns with broader industry trends, as reduced-temperature asphalt technologies are gaining traction for sustainable road construction [2].
Future Outlook
Jasper Flapper, sustainable procurement advisor at Rijkswaterstaat, emphasizes that sustainability is no longer optional but a necessity [1]. The koploperaanpak initiative is designed to provide the necessary stimulus for industry transformation, particularly in sustainable road surfacing [1]. This aligns with global trends in highway construction, where sustainable practices and innovative technologies are increasingly becoming standard [2].