Carbon reduction is critical to achieving the Queensland Government’s 2030 renewable energy target and Net Zero Emissions by 2050.
The Boral / Beca response to this challenge was to develop a basis of design for a bridge structure that would realise substantive carbon reductions through low carbon concrete and dematerialisation.
We developed an evidence-based comparison between an existing conventional bridge structure and the same structure designed to a reduced carbon specification using high strength low carbon concrete with appropriate design treatments to support durability and cost outcomes.
This study considered a 660m long, 14.1m wide bridge designed using super-t girders. This study investigated the design innovations, the use of high strength low carbon concrete and the estimated reduction in carbon footprint.
The combined research effort concluded that a 20% reduction in carbon emission is possible with the use of the high strength, low carbon concrete when compared with standard design practises and materials’ usage.
This paper also discusses the challenges faced by the industry including designers, contractors, and asset owners to achieve low carbon outcomes and provides a road map for the broader adoption of a more sustainable approach to infrastructure delivery.
