Asphalt Group Leads the Way in Sustainable Road Repair with PAS 2080 Verification
In a significant stride towards environmental sustainability, Asphalt Group has proudly secured PAS 2080 verification, positioning itself among the pioneers in the highways sector to attain this esteemed standard.
This accomplishment encompasses all four divisions within the company: Reinforcement, Preservations, Surface Dressing, and Surfacing.
Collaborative Effort with PYE-Management Ltd
The journey to PAS 2080 compliance was a collaborative endeavour. Asphalt Group partnered with PYE-Management Ltd, a consultancy renowned for its expertise in carbon management, to navigate the rigorous verification process.
This alliance underscores the company’s dedication to integrating sustainable practices across its operations.
Understanding PAS 2080
PAS 2080, developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI), serves as a comprehensive framework for managing whole-life carbon in infrastructure projects. It aims to reduce carbon emissions and costs through intelligent design, construction, and utilisation.
Referenced in the UK government’s Construction Playbook, PAS 2080 is becoming a cornerstone specification for carbon management in the built environment.
Leadership’s Perspective
Stephen Cooke, Managing Director of Asphalt Group, emphasised the growing imperative for the highways sector to elevate environmental standards.
The MD stated: “The highways sector is under increasing pressure to adapt to improving environmental standards and expectations of government and society; including bringing all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.”
Cooke further highlighted that PAS 2080 transcends mere carbon reduction; it’s about revolutionising infrastructure design, construction, and management to enhance asset longevity.
The Verification Process
Achieving PAS 2080 verification is no small feat. Asphalt Group underwent a meticulous two-stage audit that scrutinised several critical areas:
- Carbon Footprint Analysis: Evaluating the company’s current carbon emissions baseline.
- Carbon Reduction Strategy: Formulating a robust plan to achieve targeted emission reductions.
- Policy and Procedure Assessment: Ensuring internal policies align with carbon management objectives.
- Implementation Review: Verifying the effective execution of carbon reduction procedures.
- Management Systems Evaluation: Assessing the integration of carbon management into existing systems.
- Project Analysis: Reviewing key projects for carbon calculations, value chain communication, and innovative practices.
This comprehensive evaluation affirms Asphalt Group’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
PYE-Management Ltd
Emma Pye, Founder of PYE-Management Ltd, lauded Asphalt Group’s dedication, stating: “It is amazing what Asphalt Group have achieved. It has been wonderful to support them on the start of the decarbonisation journey and the whole company were fully engaged with the implementation of the changes required for PAS 2080.”
Her commendation reflects the company’s cohesive approach to embracing sustainable practices.
Industry Implications
Asphalt Group’s achievement resonates beyond the company, setting a benchmark for the highways sector. By aligning with PAS 2080, the company not only enhances its environmental credentials but also positions itself competitively as clients increasingly prioritise sustainability.
This move is anticipated to inspire other firms within the industry to adopt similar standards, fostering a collective effort towards a net-zero future.
National Highways’ Endorsement
The significance of PAS 2080 is further underscored by endorsements from major industry players. National Highways, for instance, has integrated PAS 2080 into its operations and is actively encouraging its supply chain to follow suit.
Stephen Elderkin, National Highways’ Director of Environmental Sustainability, remarked: “We’re pleased to endorse the use of this tool throughout our extended supply chains in line with our stated aim of implementing PAS 2080 beyond our own National Highways accreditation.”
Highways Sector Council’s Toolkit
To facilitate broader adoption of PAS 2080, the Highways Sector Council has introduced a ‘free to use’ toolkit.
This resource aids asset owners, designers, contractors, and their supply chains in aligning with the standard, promoting a unified approach to carbon management across the industry.
The Path to a Net-zero Future
Asphalt Group’s successful PAS 2080 verification exemplifies a proactive approach to environmental responsibility within the highways sector. This milestone not only reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a precedent for industry-wide carbon management practices.
Through collaboration, innovation, and adherence to recognised standards, the path to a net-zero future becomes increasingly attainable for all stakeholders involved.
