The national government, provinces, and municipalities are collaborating to improve the quality and lifespan of asphalt and to make asphalt production more sustainable. During a meeting on December 4 in Utrecht, they presented the Future-Proof Asphalt Chain Approach. With this, the initiators take a step towards cleaner production, less disruption, and smarter use of raw materials.
Pooling Demand Creates Space for Innovation
In this approach, governments work more closely together. They pool their demand for asphalt, better coordinate maintenance, and use as many of the same standards as possible. This makes it possible to invest in clean technologies and asphalt plants without harmful emissions. This joint way of working helps governments and companies to advance innovations faster and implement sustainable improvements.
Drenthes Commitment and Regional Cooperation
The Province of Drenthe actively contributes to this joint approach. Roelof Schuiling, director of the mobility domain, explains: “If we pay more attention to quality and extend the lifespan of asphalt, less new asphalt is needed. This creates more time for processing and brings asphalt production without harmful emissions closer. This fits well with the North Netherlands Asphalt Covenant and our role as a driver in the region.”
Next Steps in 2026
In the coming months, the involved parties will work on a joint work agenda for 2026.
More information about the national approach and the demand alliance can be found on the website (links to another website) of Sustainable Infra.