Low-Carbon Pavement Selection: Life Cycle Comparison of Asphalt and Rigid Pavements

Concept Note :Low-carbon pavement selection: A life cycle comparison of asphalt and rigid pavements

Objective

• This proposal aims to conduct a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of asphalt (flexible) and rigid (concrete) pavements to quantitatively compare their environmental performance over the entire life cycle.

Description

• With the rapid expansion of road infrastructure, pavement construction has become a major contributor to energy use, resource consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. This proposal aims to conduct a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of asphalt (flexible) and rigid (concrete) pavements to quantitatively compare their environmental performance over the entire life cycle, including material production, construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, and end-of-life stages under Indian conditions.

Impact

• The outcomes will provide an evidence-based comparison of asphalt and rigid pavements, supporting informed selection of low-carbon, resource-efficient pavement systems aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 9, 12, and 13.