Innovative bio-composite bicycle swing bridge “Ritsumasyl” in the Netherlands shows why the industry should embrace bio-based composites

Governments in Europe are pushing for sustainable, environmentally friendly and bio-based technologies, enforcing restrictive laws, and selecting “green” materials and techniques for infrastructural and construction projects. This could be good news for the reinforced plastics industry, since steel and concrete are frowned upon for their environmental impact. However, wood processing industries are already jumping into the gap, exploiting their “bio-based” image. The reinforced plastics industry, although arguably with clear, potential benefits, is lagging behind. In the Dutch province of Friesland, an innovative bio-composite bicycle swing bridge was opened to show the way. We talk to Daan van Rooijen and Rik Brouwer of NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, who were involved in its development.