THE FUTURE OF THE EUROPEAN ASPHALT INDUSTRY

As far as the client is concerned, the asphalt contractor is responsible for laying an asphalt road. This concept has gained in importance as contracts between asphalt contractors and their clients have assumed a more functional character. Both asphalt producers and asphalt contractors are now taking a great deal more responsibility for their products and services than they have done hitherto. This will impact significantly in the way the asphalt business will develop. Moreover, tighter legislative frameworks and greater environmental awareness on the part of road users will have an impact on product and process development. The European Asphalt Pavement Association (EAPA) represents asphalt producers and laying contractors in 24 European countries. Some 300 million tonnes of hot and cold asphalt are produced and laid in Europe each year, of which EAPA members account for 70%. For the covering abstract see ITRD E108688.