Design sans titre (37)-1

Aggregate Industries Case Study

A Carbon Neutral Scheme for National Highways in UK

 

Project Overview

In partnership with Aggregate Industries, ORIS supported the 6-km reconstruction of an existing carriageway from M6 Junction 36 to the Brettargh Holt roundabout in Cumbria.

This £8M National Highways project was identified as the first UK Carbon Neutral Scheme, demonstrating a pioneering commitment to low-carbon road infrastructure.

With early-stage engagement and a strong sustainability commitment, the project aimed to:

 

  • Develop a low-carbon pavement solution
  • Utilize Circular Ecology for carbon offsetting
  • Achieve full carbon neutrality

Approach & key solutions

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  • Multi-Scenario Pavement Design Analysis

    Using ORIS, multiple pavement designs were generated within UK pavement standards. ORIS then shortlisted three optimized solutions based on:
    - Carbon emissions performance
    - Cost efficiency
    - Resource consumption
    - Long-term durability

  • Recycling & Circular Economy Integration


    The project incorporated a high level of material reuse, ensuring that 85% of the old pavement was recycled into the new structure.

  • Strategic Carbon Offset Plan

    To achieve carbon neutrality, ORIS helped identify a pavement design with an optimal balance between carbon reduction and cost efficiency. The remaining carbon footprint was offset through Circular Ecology initiatives.

Impact & key results

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The Carbon Neutral Scheme delivered:

 

  • -55% reduction in carbon emissions, setting a new UK benchmark for sustainable highways

  • 85% of the old pavement recycled, minimizing resource consumption
  • £3M in cost savings, optimizing project efficiency
  • 6,000 heavy goods vehicles removed, reducing traffic impact & emissions

  • 100% reuse of hazardous waste material, ensuring responsible waste management


Recognized at the 2021 Highways Awards, winning both the Environmental Sustainability Award & Special Merit Award