Exploring the material circularity index of motorways: A case study over Europe

Abstract

The pavement engineering industry is adopting circular and sustainable practices. And Reclaimed Asphalt (RA) is a key player. It is highly recyclable and supports Circular Economy (CE) in closed or open loops. Most European countries, however, exhibit distrust for the end-products with RA, rendering them significantly less circular. To quantify the circularity of the pavement layers of various European countries, the Material Circularity Index (MCIMRA) of the motorways in Italy, Spain, Czech Republic, and France was assessed. Data from the European Asphalt Pavement Association was used. Results show that MCIMRA is highest for base courses due to regulations allowing higher RA% in lower layers. Overall, France exhibits the highest, followed by Spain, Czech Republic, and Italy. Multiple parameters lead to this, but the RA% is the main driver. Recommendations include that decision and policy makers, and stakeholders should push towards altering the legislation allowing greater RA% for more circular and sustainable pavements.