A Methodology for the Life Cycle Management of European Road Pavements

International and European standards are rapidly emerging to guide practitioners in achieving more consistent and precise sustainability assessments (SAs) across various sectors. In construction engineering, specific standards are developing, particularly in the building sector, while more questions persist for infrastructures. PavementLCM, a project funded by the Conference of European Directors of Roads, addressed this gap by aiding road authorities in designing and maintaining road pavements through life cycle thinking. The project, shaped through collaboration with industries and road authorities, establishes a framework for an SA specific to road pavements. This framework distinguishes between pavement materials and activities, offering indicators and best practices. The guidelines present a step-by-step procedure aligned with existing European standards for environmental building assessments (EN 17472:2022), aiming to establish a harmonized life cycle management approach for major road pavements in Europe. The authors’ goal is to support the implementation of sustainability assessments in Europe and inspire similar initiatives globally.