A recent competition to advance net-zero carbon goals in construction and maintenance has yielded promising results, with Seaham-based Low Carbon Materials (LCM) receiving funding to trial their innovative product. LCM’s carbon-negative aggregate, supported by Skanska and Tarmac, is now being tested on a section of the M11 in Essex as part of resurfacing work between junctions 7-8.
The trial involves laying a test strip of asphalt concrete binder course with LCM’s carbon-negative aggregate alongside a control strip with conventional aggregate. The aim is to assess the impact of this new material on carbon emissions with minimal changes to standard procedures.
Dr. Joanna White, Roads Development Director, emphasized the significance of this trial, stating, “Solutions like this could have a real impact on our road to net zero carbon.” She highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and praised the support from Skanska and Tarmac.
The Accelerating Low Carbon Innovation competition, run in partnership with Connected Places Catapult, is part of a broader initiative funded by Designated Funds to support projects that benefit road users, the environment, and communities. This competition is complemented by another initiative focused on improving customer experiences during roadworks, with successful projects showcased at an event at The Barbican in London.
Nick Harris, Chief Executive, stressed the urgent need to address infrastructure challenges and meet net-zero targets, while Mike Wilson, Executive Director for Safety, Engineering & Standards, underscored the necessity for innovation to meet evolving customer needs and tackle climate change.
