Barnet’s resurfacing project demonstrates practical carbon savings through material and delivery innovations.
Barnet Council’s recent road resurfacing project in Greater London marks a significant step towards its net zero ambition for 2042, showcasing how construction activity can align with environmental targets. Marlborough Highways, in partnership with Holcim UK and Low Carbon Materials, resurfaced three streets using a low carbon aggregate alternative (ACLA) integrated within a specially formulated asphalt mix.
This initiative delivered tangible carbon reductions without disrupting the live street network or the project timeline, completing works in just six days. By carefully selecting materials such as Holcim’s SuperLow asphalt and incorporating ACLA in the binder course, the project achieved a dramatic reduction in embodied carbon—from an estimated 62.34 tonnes CO₂e down to 4.49 tonnes CO₂e. The approach also extended to logistics and site operations, prioritising electric plant and vehicles powered by renewable energy tariffs, supplemented by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) where necessary.
For construction managers overseeing projects in London and the Home Counties, this example highlights the importance of close collaboration with councils and suppliers to identify carbon reduction opportunities throughout the supply chain. Thoughtful integration of innovative materials, combined with sustainable site practices, can deliver both environmental benefits and adherence to programme constraints. Effective management ensures these low carbon initiatives transition smoothly from policy ambition to practical reality on site.
Source: The Construction Index
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