The Upper South Creek Advanced Water Recycling Centre, being delivered by John Holland in Kemps Creek, features an asphalt trial that incorporates innovative materials to deliver improved sustainability outcomes. The trial involved laying an asphalt mixture that included cellulose fibre replacements sourced from recycled coffee cups and a low-carbon bio-binder. Over a four-month period, the performance of this sustainable pavement was tested against a conventional pavement under identical loads and turning movements. The results showed that the trial mix performed as well as the conventional road, and demonstrated that the asphalt mix could achieve a 25 per cent reduction in carbon emissions per square metre.
The Judging Panel recognised the potential of the trial product, noting that the asphalt mix has a lower carbon footprint as well as featuring slow aging properties, extending its service life and reducing maintenance costs. The Panel acknowledged the opportunity for replicability of the asphalt for permanent roads within the facility, as well as in the construction industry more broadly.