RECYCLING: WILL ROADS BECOME 'LINEAR LANDFILLS'?

The use of solid waste materials in the construction of roads and its consequences are discussed in this article. The recycling of waste material in pavemetns is here to stay, but its impact on the roads have to be addressed. A series of articles will cover the use of fly ash and slag, rubber tires, glass, plastics, roofing shingles, reclaimed asphalt pavement and recycled concrete. The main issues central to the use of recycled materials in roads are as follows: cost effectiveness; performance; availability; and political climate.